The Washington times., 1902-09-21

history of the order 1t was productive
of more important legislation than any
held in years. The public open session
was held in the magnificent Tabernacle
of the Mormon Church, Gov. H. NJ. Wells
extending the welcome on behalf of the
State and Hon. o. w. Powers speaking
for the city. This session was attended
by about $1,000 members and their
friends, all of whom enjoyed the rare
treat of listening to the famous Mormon
organ, the second largest in the world.
The executive sessions were held in
the assembly hall, more than 400 mem
bers of the Grand Lodge, representing
nearly as many lodges, participating.
The reports were very gratifying, show
ing 762 lodges now in good standing,
owning more than S3.500.O 900 worth of
property, and having 125,000 members,
the remarkable increase during the last
year being a source of much pleasure.
Since the last Grand Lodge session near
ly s150.000 was expended in charity An
important law adopted at this session
prohibits street fairs and carnivals un-
der the auspices of any subordinate
iouSe i, lJU0. MS was
occasioned by practice of recent origin
whereby INSCRIPTIONS show companies
would present undesirable performances
in the name of some local lodge, which
was compelled to bear all the blame.
The National Elks Home for aged and
INDECENT Elks received considerable at
tsntion. The committee was commended
for its excellent work to date and S1O.-
600 additional placed at its disposal to
defray the expenses OF remodeling and
refurnishing the buildings which are To-
Gated at Bedford Springs, Va. 1t is ex-
pected that the home will be ready for
occupancy by the coming holidays.
1t is intended TO establish another
home in the West in the near future.
making the Mississippi River the boun-
dary line, and affording opportunity to
applicants of a selection of climate
should such be necessary or desirable
in special cases.
Mr.. Burkart says: "The entertain
ments provided for the visitors were all
that could be desired and were literally
patronized and hugely enjoyed bath in
the Great Salt Lake being one of the
principal attractions as we'll as a
unique experience. Many men of ma
tional prominence attended the session.
and Buffalo Bill, member of the order,
In handsome turnout, was one of the
features of the principal parade.
Mr. George p. Cronk, who was elect
ed grand exalted ruler, is prominent
business man of Omaha. of charming
who fully merits the con-
fidence reposed in him. The next con-
vention will be held in Baltimore, Md.
during the week of July 81, which viii
enable the members of the order to nav
a visit to the National Capital, as well |
as the new home.
The Mormons are an excellent class |
Of people. They practice their religion |
and | was informed by |
city officials that they are law-abiding. |
and no comIl:i. .ty could wish for better |
citizens. 1t was noticeable that while |
heir Christian brethren elevated the
prices of commodities and service TO
he highest limit, the Mormons disposed
If their souvenirs at regular rates, es- |
ablished booths for the information of /
Visitors. cheerfully answered questions
'egarding their customs, beliefs. etc.
md spared no pains 10 make strangers
eel entirely at home"