History of the Order of AHEPA 1922 - 1972

The Beginning - July 26, 1922

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"We, American citizens of Hellenic descent …"

With these words, the preamble of the Constitution of the Order of Ahepa begins. It continues

"… desiring to form, institute and perpetuate a fraternal Order and promote its objects and principles; to effect a perfect and harmonious understanding between ourselves and others; …"

The "perfect and harmonious understanding between ourselves and others" is truly meant to achieve harmony and understanding between the immigrant from Greece and his neighbors, the Americans who were already second, third, and further removed generations from their own immigrant ancestors. Despite antagonistic attitudes from organized groups, the Greek immigrant was determined to find harmony.

"To inculcate loyalty and patriotism to and for the country in which we live; …"

Families had formed among the Greek immigrants, children born and growing, and this was now the home for the Greek immigrant and his family; it was an acknowledged fact that they were or would be citizens of America, and Ahepa recognized the loyalty and patriotism due to America.

"To stimulate the spirit of good fellowship and cooperation and to aid in the solution of social and civic problems."

This last portion of the Preamble of the Ahepa Constitution served notice that its members had not only the obligation of good fellowship to their fellow citizens, but also the obligation of actively assisting in all phases of civic life and becoming an active part of their respective town or city.

The Ahepa Constitution then lists the "Objects, Principles and Ideals" of the Order of Ahepa, which are:

The Ahepa Constitution then further includes an Article III with the heading "Non-Partisan and Non-Sectarian" which states: "This Order shall be non-partisan in politics and non-sectarian in religion. All partisan political and all sectarian religious discussions are strictly prohibited in any official deliberations thereof."

Administration

The Order of Ahepa is administered by its Constitution and By-Laws under which all of its various units are guided in their various administrations.

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The annual Supreme Conventions have the authority to amend the Constitution and By-Laws, and also elect the Supreme Lodge which is responsible for adherence to the Constitution by the subordinate units, and charged with carrying out convention mandates.

Under the Supreme Lodge are the 24 District Lodges, which administer the 24 Ahepa Districts, and each District Lodge has seven elected officers: District Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Secretary, Treasurer, Marshall, Advisor, and Athletic Director.

The Supreme Lodge is composed of the Supreme President, Supreme Vice President, Supreme Vice President of Canada, Supreme Secretary, Supreme Treasurer, Supreme Counsellor, and six Supreme Governors. There is also a Supreme Athletic Director elected by the convention, but he is not officially listed as a member of the Supreme Lodge in the Constitution.

Within each of the 24 Ahepa Districts are the local Chapters, which vary in number within each District. It is the District Lodge responsibility to oversee the activities and programs of the local Chapters. Each Chapter elects its own officers, and also has appointed officers, all of whom serve for one year terms.

The "Ahepa Family" concept includes the Order of Ahepa, and its three Auxiliaries, the Daughters of Penelope (senior women), the Sons of Pericles (junior young men), and Maids of Athena (junior girls). These four organizations makeup the Ahepa Family, and the Order of Ahepa has full authority over its Auxiliaries. Wherever possible, activities and programs of these four organizations are held in a coordinated fashion, but each group has its own governing officers, respectively elected by each organization.

The Order of Ahepa and its Auxiliaries are non-profit associations, recognized as such by the Internal Revenue Service of the U.S. Treasury Department. Ahepa's programs are charitable, educational, and fraternal, it is exempt from payment of federal and state income taxes, and contributions and donations to the Ahepa to be used for its charitable and educational programs are tax-deductible by the donors, within the scope of U.S. tax laws.

The Founding of the Order of Ahepa

Article I of the Ahepa Constitution states: "This Order shall be known as The Order of AHEPA, The American Hellenic Educational Progressive Association, founded July 26, 1922."

The word "AHEPA" is an acronym, composed of the first letters of the five words "American Hellenic Educational Progressive Association." It was founded, as stated above, on July 26, 1922, and the founding place was Atlanta, Georgia.

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The Founders of the fraternity were eight men, all residents of Atlanta, who conceived the idea of the establishment of an association of mainly citizens of Greek descent, although not limited only to such members. These eight Founders who were also the first Supreme Lodge, were:

The eight Founders of the Ahepa are also given the title: "MOTHER LODGE."

The Charter of the Order of Ahepa

September 25, 1922 - State of Georgia

Georgia, Fulton County:

To The Superior Court of said County:

The petition of George A. Poulos, Harry Angelopoulos, James Vlass, John Angelopoulos, N. D. Chotas and James Campbell of Fulton County, Georgia shows:

Wherefore, petitioners pray to be made a body corporate, with the privileges and powers herein prayed.

Hutcheson & Morris Attorney's for Petitioners

Filed in Office, this the 28th day of July, 1922.
Arnold Broyles, C.S.C.
Georgia, Fulton County.

In Re: Application of Geo. A. Poulos et al., for incorporation under the name and style of

"The American-Hellenic Educational Progressive Association"

It appearing to the court that the purpose of this incorporation as set forth in the application for incorporation are each and severally within the intent of the laws of Georgia, and all requirements of law have been duly met and complied with including publication as required by law, and this matter coming on to be heard, after full and complete compliance with all lawful requirements in the premises; and there being no objection thereto.

It is therefore considered, ordered and adjudged that the prayers of petitioners are granted, & that the petitioners are incorporated as prayed, with all the rights, privileges and immunities granted corporations of like character under the laws of Georgia.

This 25 day of Sept., 1922.

Shepard Bryan - Judge Superior Court Atlanta Circuit

STATE OF GEORGIA,
COUNTY OF FULTON.

I, T. C. Miller, Clerk Superior Court, Fulton County, Georgia, do hereby certify that the within and foregoing is a true and correct copy of the Application of Geo. A. Poulos et al. to be incorporated under the name and style of

"The American-Hellenic Educational Progressive Association"

with Order thereon granting same, all of which appears of file and record in this office.

Witness, my hand and seal of Office, this the 6th day of July, 1926.
(Signed)
T. C. Miller
Clerk Superior Court, Fulton County, Georgia

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The first six members of the Mother Lodge of the Ahepa were Nicholas D. Chotas from Lechaina, Greece; James Campbell from Kakotary; George (Nicopoulos) A. Polos from Karpenisi; Harry Angelopoulos from Divry; John Angelopoulos, from Divry; James Vlass from Ithaca. They employed attorney Carl F. Hutcheson of Atlanta to draw up the application to the State of Georgia for a Charter. After filing for the Charter, and while awaiting its granting, George Campbell and Speros J. Stamos joined the original six, to complete the Ahepa Mother Lodge of eight members.

They then began their meetings at the Atlanta Greek Orthodox Church Hall and School to set forth the objects and purposes of the new association, and to draw up the Constitution and By-Laws, with the help of attorney Carl F. Hutcheson, who was of great assistance to them in establishing the basic principles of the organization.

The First Meetings of Ahepa

The First Meeting (July 26, 1922)

The first meeting of the Order of Ahepa was called to order at 3:00 p.m. on July 26, 1922 at the Greek Orthodox Church Hall in Atlanta, Georgia. Present were: George A. Poulos, Harry Angelopoulos, James Vlass, John Angelopoulos, N. D. Chotas, James Campbell. George A. Poulos presided. (Name changed later to "Polos.")

The Supreme Lodge of the American-Hellenic Educational Progressive Association was organized, and direction given to their counsel to apply to the Superior Court of Fulton County, Georgia for a Charter. It was decided that this organization would be national in scope, and would be a secret organization. It was decided at this meeting that the purposes of the new association would be:

(a) To advance and promote pure and undefiled Americanism among the Greeks of the United States, its Territories and Colonial possessions;

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(b) To educate the Greeks in the matter of democracy, and in the matter of the government of the United States;

(c) To instill the deepest loyalty to the United States;

(d) To promote fraternal sociability;

(e) To practice benevolent aid among this nationality.

It was also decided that the chief functioning body of the new association would be called "The Supreme Lodge." The following were therefore named as "The Supreme Lodge" and its officers and members were:

It was also decided that all lodges in the states, and territories were to be known as "Superior Lodges," (the equivalent today of our District Lodges). In addition, the by-laws were made at this first meeting on July 26, 1922:

The Second Meeting

July 27, 1922

At this Second Meeting on the following day, the Oath and Obligation of Membership was discussed, but not completed. Different secrets, signs, and signals were adopted, and an emblem consisting of a design including the Statue of Liberty, the American flag, and a sword. It was also decided that Certificates of Membership be given to every member, prepared by the Supreme Lodge, and that no new members would be admitted to the Supreme Lodge for a period of three years, but that annual elections of officers of the Supreme Lodge be held. The meeting was held at the office of the Supreme President.

The Third Meeting

July 31, 1922

The following ten (10) applications for Membership into the association were approved at this meeting, and $100.00 in initiation fees deposited in the treasury: Chris Chotas, M. Stamos, H. Brown, James Verginadis, Nikitas Demos, Tom Datos, Gr. Blatsos, Jerry Vlass, Pete Pappanicolopoulos, and Bill Jones. The Propagation Department, in the person of George A. Poulos, announced that work was being done on the printing of a pamphlet or book on the history of America, the Constitution, and the various departments of government, for distribution to prospective members. It was stated that the book would be printed in both English and Greek languages.

Supreme President Chotas asked that "American born" persons be admitted as members of the association and this was unanimously approved. (Although the association was formed initially for the Greeks of America, only 5 days after forming the new association, the Supreme Lodge decided wisely and properly that membership would not be restricted to the Greek in America, but would be open to those not of Greek descent.) It was also decided that three blackballs would be needed to reject any application for membership, with voting on such membership applications to be held by secret ballot. And a bankaccount was opened at the Lowry National Bank.  

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The Fourth Meeting

August 2, 1922

The Fourth Meeting was opened at 4 p.m. on August 2nd, and the Oath of membership was approved in both the English and the Greek languages. The membership application of Nicholas Rigas was approved.

The Fifth Meeting

August 14, 1922

The Fifth Meeting was held on August 14, 1922, and the following applications for Membership were approved: Frank Matrangos, Theodore Athan, Charles Keramidas, George Lachanos, Nick Antonopoulos, Dennis Carras, Niarhos Kolokuris, and Eli Kavouras. A contract with the Propagation Department was approved.

A resolution from the Junior Order of United American Mechanics (O.U.A.M.) commending the association for its establishment and for its principles, was read. The by-laws of the Subordinate Lodges were approved. Directions were given that proper equipTilent and paraphernalia be secured as soon as possible, so that the initiations of the approved applicants for membership could be held as early as possible.

The Sixth Meeting

August 19, 1922

In appreciation of services rendered to the Supreme Lodge and the association, Honorary Memberships in Atlanta, Georgia Chapter No. 1 were awarded to C. E. Allen of the Lowry National Bank, and Carl Hutcheson, attorney. (The association had Honorary Memberships during its first formative years, however, such Honorary Memberships were abolished by convention action a few years later. Today, the Order of Ahepa does not offer Honorary Memberships, but requires that all members must be active, and dues-paying.)

Because of financial obligations, authorization was given to secure a loan of $500.00 to carry on the fraternity's work. Discussion was held on assisting members of the fraternity to secure their citizenship papers, and a program was set in motion. Applications for membership of the following were then approved: Victor Retsinas, Dennis Vlass, James Soteres, Tom Jinis, Pete Mitchell, and Const. Vacalis.  

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The Seventh Meeting

August 22, 1922

A report was given on the requirements for citizenship, and for voting in elections. It was reported that the loan of $500 had been secured and deposited in the association account. The membership application of Anthony Rumanes was approved. The initiation for the new members was set for August 24, at the Red Men's Wigwam No. 86, on Central Avenue.

The Supreme Lodge then suggested the names of the following candidates as nominations for the officers of the first Subordinate Lodge, or Chapter No. 1, Atlanta, Ga.: Eli Kavouras, Dennis Carras, Pete Pappanicolopoulos, Cris Chotas, Constantine Vacalis, Charles Keramidas, Nicholas Rigas, and Nick Kelly. The Propagation Department, now called Organization Department, was granted a loan of $150 for 60 days at 8% interest, to continue their work.

The Eighth Meeting

August 24, 1922

This Special Meeting was called by the Supreme Lodge to initiate candidates for Chapter No. 1, Atlanta, Ga. Applications for membership were approved for: J. Bill Efstathiou, Nick Manesis, and Charles Drakos. Eighteen candidates were then initiated. The following were elected as the Board of Governors of Chapter No. 1: Charles Drakos, Eli Kavouras, Constantine Vacalis, Nick Regas, N. Kolocouris, Dennis Carras, Harry Brown, and James Verginadis, and the new Chapter membership was officially welcomed into the new association, and congratulated.

The Ninth Meeting

August 28, 1922

This was a joint meeting of the Board of Governors of the Supreme Lodge, and the Board of Governors of Atlanta Lodge No. 1, and was held at the Greek School House. It was unanimously approved that Charles Keramidas be nominated for the Atlanta Lodge Board of Governors at the next meeting of that Lodge. It was also approved that a committee of Three be appointed by the Atlanta Lodge to pass upon all applications for membership submitted, and refer their decisions to their next meeting for membership approval. The By-laws were then read and explained to the Atlanta Lodge Board of Governors. A decision was also made to purchase the various paraphernalia that had been rented for use at the initiations.

The Tenth Meeting

August 31, 1922

An amendment was made at this meeting to the By-laws, and changed to now read: "Any past president of the association in good standing may hold office in the Supreme Lodge provided he is elected to such office by the Governors of the Supreme Lodge." An emergency meeting was called for Friday, September 1st.  

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The Eleventh Meeting

September 1, 1922

This was again a joint meeting of the Supreme Lodge and the Atlanta Lodge No. 1. Various parts of the By-laws were discussed, and comments were made by some present that too much power was vested in the Supreme Lodge, given in Article 16 of the By-laws. A decision was then made to amend Article 16 so that the delegates to the Supreme Lodge at the annual national convention shall have the right to vote on all laws and amendments regarding the Subordinate Lodges, and that each member of the Supreme Lodge shall have a vote in that convention. Also, that any finances handled by the Supreme Lodge, excepting operating expenses, shall be subject to the majority vote of the convention delegates; however, until such delegates are created and a convention held, such authority shall remain with the Supreme Lodge.

The Twelfth Meeting

September 11, 1922

Thirteen applications for membership were approved at this meeting as follows: Pete K. Priles, Charlie Balekas, Nick Christofides, Themistocles Routsos, Nick Matrangos, John Lenakis, Em. Zimarakis, James Cotsakis, Gost Konstantinou, George Reskos, P.Pappadopoulos, George Manos, and George Pappas. Supreme Secretary-Treasurer H. Angelopoulos was asked to assume the duties of secretary for Atlanta Lodge No. 1, and he agreed to assist in its work. This meeting was also a joint meeting of both units.

The Thirteenth Meeting

October 9, 1922

The Constitution and By-laws of both the Supreme Lodge, and the Subordinate Lodge were voted and passed. The $10,000 bond of the Propagation Department was reduced from $10,000 to $5,000 and a minimum of 1,000 members for the first year was set as a goal. The regular meeting for Atlanta Lodge No. 1 was then set for Friday, October 13. Applications for membership were approved for Chris Anastopoulos and Charles Menias.

The Fourteenth Meeting

October 11, 1922

The membership applications of Byron Souders and John F. Burdine were approved. Lengthy discussion was held on the contract and plans of the Propagation Department.  

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The Fifteenth Meeting

This was a meeting of Atlanta Lodge No. 1 in which discussion was held on expanding the Lodge's membership, and plans put into effect.

The Sixteenth Meeting

October 30, 1922

The Supreme Lodge authorized Supreme President Chotas to appoint George A. Poulos as Supreme Deputy with the duties of "assisting the Supreme President in his work; have the power of representing the Supreme President and act for him under his instructions in installing new Lodges, delivering Charters to same" and the appointment took effect Nov. 3, 1922.

The Seventeenth Meeting

November 14, 1922

George A. Poulos reported that Charlotte, North Carolina Lodge No. 2 had been established with 45 members, and that the membership included many prominent persons not of Greek descent. Byron Souders and John F. Burdine were elected Councilors to the Supreme Lodge.

The Eighteenth Meeting

November 16, 1922

This was a joint meeting of the Supreme Lodge and Atlanta Lodge No. 1. Membership applications of the following were approved: George Brown, John Grisz, Tom Skouteris, D. Psaroudakis, Chris Carlos, Adamantios Lamos and Frank Belieu. Ten new candidates were initiated that evening. Honorary speaker of the evening was J. O. Wood, who spoke on the duties of citizenship. Due to resignation of officers, the following new Atlanta Lodge officers were elected: Dr. Belieu, President; George Brown, Treasurer; Jerry Vlass, Bill Jones and Chris Carlos, Governors.

The Nineteenth Meeting

November 19, 1922

This was an "Open Meeting" held at the Red Men's Wigman, to which non-members were invited to hear speakers. John F. Burdine and George A. Poulos spoke on the purposes and benefits of the A.H.E.P.A. In response to an inquiry from the audience as to why the discussions were not held in the Greek language, J. O. Wood replied that this was the very point of the new association, to encourage the Greek-American to speak the English language, especially when he is in his place of business or among others who do not know the language, and he emphasized that good command of the English language was essential for the Greek-American in his business and community life.  

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The Twentieth Meeting

November 21, 1922

This was a joint meeting of the Supreme Lodge and Atlanta Lodge. The new set of Rituals were read and approved by the Supreme Lodge, and ordered to be printed. Mr. Burdine read a notice from the Birmingham, Ala. paper, and stated that George A. Poulos was almost ready to install Lodge No. 3 in Birmingham. Dr. Belieu suggested that the Atlanta Lodge hold regular luncheon meetings as soon as the membership was large enough, and that the net proceeds be donated to local institutions.

The Twenty-first Meeting

December 1, 1922

This entire meeting was devoted to rehearsal of ritualistic ceremonies, with only officers present of both the Supreme Lodge and Atlanta Lodge.

The Twenty-second Meeting

January 8, 1923

At this Supreme Lodge meeting lengthy discussion was held on the results of the Propagation Department and its financial condition, and the Initiation Fee was raised to $20.00 for new members.

Financial Problems

The costs of the "Propagation" or Organization Department which had the responsibility of establishing new Lodges were running proportionately higher than its earned income from initiation fees, and the Department was reorganized with new personnel.

At the meeting of May 7, 1923, H. I. North and George A. Poulos were given the responsibility for running the Organization Department; and at this meeting it was also strongly suggested that a National Convention be called as soon as possible, with delegates from established Lodges. P. J. Stamos was elected Supreme Secretary at the June 19, 1923 meeting, after the resignation of Harry Angelopoulos from that office.

The First Anniversary

The First Anniversary of the association was celebrated with a Church mass, followed by a picnic at the Greek Farm, Utoy Springs.

In July of 1923, the Supreme Lodge adopted "The American Hellenic News" as the official organ of the association.

Again, dissatisfaction was expressed by the Supreme Lodge with the results of the Organization Department under its new officers, and the contract between the Supreme Lodge and the Organization Department was cancelled by the Supreme Lodge. In addition, instructions were given that future funds paid by Subordinate Lodges for initiation fees of new members be paid to the Supreme Lodge Treasury, and not to the Organization Department.  

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Meeting of August 17, 1923

This special meeting of the Supreme Lodge was held at the offices of the Organization Department, and called to discuss the serious status of the association, insofar as finances were concerned. Supreme Treasurer Harry Angelopoulos gave a financial picture of the Organization Department and of the association in general, and recommended that a National Convention be called as soon as possible, if the Association was to be saved and continue in existence. The motion to hold a National Convention was passed unanimously, and the Supreme Secretary was instructed to contact all Lodges, and determine the most appropriate date for the convention.

The First Year

July 26, 1922 - October 15, 1923

During the first year of this new association, the results of the Supreme Lodge's efforts were: 32 Subordinate Lodges established, and 1,300 members initiated. These Subordinate Lodges were:

Despite such an outstanding accomplishment in the first year of 32 Subordinate Lodges, or Chapters, as they are called today by the fraternity, the Supreme Lodge found itself faced with financial problems, resulting in the calling of the First National Convention (or Supreme Conventions as they are now called.)

The costs of organizing new Lodges were greater than the income received from the initiation fees paid to the Propagation Department, which had an office and personnel to maintain. This Department was reorganized at least once, but the financial crisis remained.

It must be remembered that the idea of organizations, societies, and village-oriented and province-oriented associations was not a new thought among the Greeks in the United States, in the year 1922.

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Many of these societies were founded as early as 1900, and even in previous years, in the larger cities. Efforts to establish a national association that would embrace all Greek immigrants was started by Michael Anagnos prior to 1910, and such an association was begun shortly after his death, with local units in many parts of the country. However, the emphasis of this Pan Hellenic Union was on the ties of the Greek immigrant with his homeland, and during the Balkan Wars of 1912 the Pan Hellenic Union was used as a recruiting office for Greek immigrants wishing to return to Greece and fight in the war. It offered welfare benefits also to its members. The Union lasted for a few years, and finally died out.

Topika somateia, either village-oriented groups, or province groups, were also spread everywhere in the cities. These, of course, also emphasized their direct ties with Greece.

Greek Associations in the United States

Despite the fact that the total number of Greek immigrants to the United States ranks in the lower percentage of total immigration, the establishment of Greek-American associations on both national and local levels ranks the highest among any immigrant groups. Although many such associations or societies gradually disappeared over the years, there are records that indicate the existence of the following as of the year 1965:

Besides the Order of Ahepa, there were: Gapa (Greek American Progressive Association), Achaian, Arcadian, Aesclipian, Thessalian, Anatoliki Roumelia, Andros, Ararchoviton, Argeion Danaos, Athenians, Chian, Cretan, Calavriton, Castorians, Corinthians, Cephalonians, Eleians, Epirotes, Eubean, Evritanans, Icarians, Constantinople Society, lonicon, Kalymnion, Kassian, Korfian, Kozaniton, Laconians, Lesvians, Lymnians, Lacedaemon, Macedonian, Messinian, Micrasiatic, Thracian, Magoulioton, Mantinioton, Monemvasioton, Naxion, Naupactian, Pontian, Rhodian, Siatisteon, Spetsioton, Stereoelladition, Samian, Tilians, Thessalian, United Cyprians, Vroiseon Anavrites, Zakynthians.

Criticism

The Ahepa, with its program of Americanism, the use of the English language, its assertion of being non-political and non-sectarian, struck many Greek-Americans as being heretical and it was bitterly criticized in many quarters, including the Greek newspapers in America.

Despite this opposition, the Founders of Ahepa knew and felt deeply the courage of their convictions, and continued their oftentimes seemingly hopeless efforts to build solid foundations for their brainchild.

Some of the new members who joined during that first 15 months of the new organization could not withstand the criticism that was being levelled at them, and dropped out. Only those who knew from past experiences that the Ahepa was based upon the only precepts which could bring together Americans of Greek descent into a common organization that would withstand time and criticism, held fast and kept the faith.  

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Today, looking back into those years of 1922 and 1923, it may be difficult for one to understand why the new association was the object of bitter criticism, but if one places himself in that era, as an immigrant recently arrived, or arrived within a few years from Greece, the picture does become clearer. The Greek immigrant did not leave Greece because of political oppression there, nor because of dissatisfaction with his government. He left Greece as a most patriotic citizen of Greece; but he left for economic reasons, and for work, so that he could send money back to his family and relatives in the village, and return one day, himself, with funds to make a better life in Greece.

Although probably most Greek immigrants had by the year 1922 decided that America was now their land, and here they would stay, yet there were many who still dreamed with fond hopes of returning to Greece and consequently the principles of Ahepa rankled and seemed revolutionary to them, and they felt early resentment of an association which was trying to "Americanize" the Greek.

The task of "selling" the idea of Ahepa to the Greek in America was, therefore, a difficult and sometimes thankless one. The "miracle" of Ahepa is that it did not die, but that we can today celebrate its Golden Anniversary.

The First Supreme Convention

The First National (Supreme) Convention was held in Atlanta, Georgia, October 15-17, 1923.

Meeting at Chamber of Commerce

October 15, 1923

The meeting was called to order by President N. D. Chotas at 9:30 with invocation by Judge Well. Mr. Carl Hutcheson of Atlanta then gave the delegates a very warm welcome to Atlanta as the representative of the Mayor. The keynote of Mr. Hutcheson 's address was "loyalty" to Old Glory. Mr. Chotas tendered the thanks of the convention to Mr. Hutcheson for his very gracious welcome.

Hon. Hooper Alexander was then introduced and made the most inspiring address, gave a brief history of the Greek nation and its realm of art, science, literature and religion. He then touched upon the organization of the A.H.E.P.A., and pictured in a vivid way its opportunities and possibilities for service to the world.

After Mr. Alexander's address, Judge H. N. Wells of New York City moved that the Convention extend a rising vote of thanks to Mr. Alexander for such a soul-stirring address. President Chotas then read a message of greeting from Congressman William D. Upshaw and Rev. Pappinakis of Charlotte, in which they expressed their warm and sympathetic cooperation. President George Demeter of Boston Lodge then responded in a wonderful way to the speeches of the morning, on behalf of the delegates.

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Mr. Demeter was followed by Judge H. N. Wells of New York, who made a most helpful and inspiring address, in which he scored the "cheap" patriot, but expressed all love for the loyal patriot. Judge Wells was followed by Mr. C. R. Nixon of Tulsa, Okla., who painted a vivid picture of the condition among the Greek as it exists in Oklahoma today. Mr. Nixon expressed deep interest in this Association and great confidence in its possibilities. He said that they would have been working harder in Oklahoma if he had known that the Association really meant so much -- but since he had come to Atlanta and seen what it was, and how ,those interested were working -- that Tulsa could be counted on a hundred percent to do everything in her power from now on.

President John DeMos of Jacksonville Lodge then made a most interesting talk, telling of a vision of such an organization that he had some twenty years ago, and how it thrilled him to be in such a meeting and literally see those dreams come true.

President Chotas then introduced Mr. Fred Houser of the Atlanta Convention Bureau, who made a snappy and helpful talk about the value of get-together meetings. Dr. G. M. Saliba then was asked to speak and responded by echoing the sentiments of Mr. Nixon of Tulsa.

Mr. Ben Davis of Birmingham Lodge then made a most thrilling address, which was a great source of inspiration to every man present. Mr. Davis is a particularly forceful speaker. There were many other interesting and helpful talks and the meeting was adjourned by the singing of "America" led by Mr. C.R. Nixon of Tulsa. (Note: above are minutes kept of the Luncheon meeting at the Chamber of Commerce)

Address of Welcome - N. D. Chotas, Supreme President
First Supreme Convention

Secretary's Report - Supreme Secretary, P. J. Stamos
First Supreme Convention

Secretary's Report (Continued on Page 168)

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Secretary's Report (Continued from Page 166)

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The First Convention

Attending the First Convention in Atlanta, Ga. were the members of the Supreme Lodge, and the following "Subordinate Lodge" delegates:

H. I. North, Atlanta, Ga. #1; H. G. Link, Jr., Charlotte, N.C. #2; Ben Davis and Arthur Greenwood, Birmingham, Ala., #3; C. M. Cockinos, Charleston, S.C. #4; Dr. G. M. Saliba, Savannah, Ga. #5; John Young, Memphis, Tenn. #7; D. Lorant, Shreveport, La. #8; George S. Smitzes, Tampa, Fla. #12; C. R. Nixon, Tulsa, Okla., #13; George Catsaros, Miami, Fla., #14; Willis Gastaing, Tarpon Springs, Fla., #16; George Demeter, Boston, Mass., #24; H. N. Wells and S. Retsinopoulos, New York City #25; George Tsekuras and M. Kyriazakos, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania #26; and I. Arakas, Asheville, N.C. #28. There were 8 Delegates from the Supreme Lodge, 19 Subordinate Lodge delegates, for a total of 27 delegates at the First Convention.

The new Supreme Lodge elected at this first convention was:
Hugh N. Wells, Supreme President;
John DeMos, Supreme Vice President;
Soterios Retsinopoulos, Supreme Secretary;
Harry Coroneos, Supreme Treasurer;

and the following Supreme Governors:
C. R. Nixon,
Ben Davis,
George Demeter,
Dr. G. M. Saliba,
Charles Kirby, and
Arthur Greenwood.

In addition, the eight members of the original Supreme Lodge, remained as Supreme Lodge members, giving a total of twenty members on this Supreme Lodge.

The convention amended the Constitution of the Order to provide that "all Past Supreme Lodge officers are ex-officio members of the Supreme Lodge, and the Convention.

Following the convention, the association Headquarters was moved to Philadelphia, under the direction of H. N. Wells, the new Supreme President.

From November, 1923 to March, 1924, the organization of Chapters (Subordinate Lodges) was started at:

Again, the fraternity found itself in dire financial straits, with expenditures far exceeding income. The Supreme Lodge then met in Philadelphia on March 3-5, 1924. After much discussion, and review of the condition of the fraternity, a vote of confidence was asked by Supreme Vice President DeMos, and it was 7-3 against Supreme President Wells. He was voted out of office by the Supreme Lodge members present, by the same vote of 7-3. The ten Supreme Lodge officers present at this meeting were: Supreme President Wells; Supreme Vice President DeMos; Supreme Secretary Retsinopoulos; Supreme Treasurer Coroneos; Supreme Governors Kirby, Saliba, and Demeter; and "Mother Lodge" members Nicholas D. Chotas, George A. Polos, and James Campbell. After the vote, Supreme Secretary Retsinopoulos and Supreme Vice President DeMos, resigned.

New Supreme Lodge

Following elections, the new Supreme Lodge was then:
George Demeter, Supreme President;
Dr. G. M. Saliba, Supreme Vice President;
Nicholas D. Chotas, Supreme Secretary;
Harry Coroneos, Supreme Treasurer;
C. R. Nixon, Supreme Counsellor;
George Campbell, Supreme Warden;
Supreme Governors George A. Polos, C. M. Cockinos, Arthur Greenwood, Ben Davis, Charles Kirby, Arthur Greenwood;
Supreme Chaplain P. Constantinides.

In 1924, the following new Chapters were started and added to the roster:

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Several bulletins and two magazines, "The Victory" and "Convention" editions, were published also during these six months. A Special Convention Edition "The Ahepa" was published in September, 1924 (which Past Supreme President George Demeter was kind enough to furnish Ahepa Headquarters, since no other copy was on file there). The magazine was published just prior to the Washington, D.C. convention, held on Sept. 21-25, 1924. Some excerpts from that 50 page edition are given to indicate some of the activity.

Ahepa Chapters numbered exactly 50 at that time. Milwaukee chapter established the Fond du Lac, Wisconsin chapter, also planned a drill team, its first picnic, and a theatre benefit party ... Brother Seraphim G. Canoutas of New York City #25 is cited for his column in The National Herald newspaper "Eleftheron Berna" which gave invaluable advice to Greek immigrants on law, medicine, government, business, immigration and other subjects.

A special lecture to Ahepa candidates by Joseph Papador of Milwaukee, Wisconsin #43 includes the following:

Manchester, N.H. already boasts of a membership of 70 members, only two and a half months after its establishment.

Supreme President George Demeter, the Editor of this special 1924 Convention magazine, writes an editorial entitled: "Why Greek Organizations Fail!"

Some excerpts from this message are:

It must be noted that one reason for Ahepa's successful progress is the early years of 1922-1925 was the fact that specific Constitutional regulations were laid down, and enforced, concerning chapter conduct, membership, duties and obligations, and that meetings as well as all ceremonial rites were carried out in proper correctness. Roberts' Rules of Order governed the chapter meetings, and later in Ahepa's history, the fraternity adopted "Demeter's Rules of Parliamentary Law – as its parliamentary governing book of rules. (Published by George Demeter, Past Supreme President).

Bill Rallis, of Parsons, Kansas, was a noted professional athlete and wrestler, who earned national championships in his class. He was initiated in Shreveport, La. #8, in 1924 and gave a benefit show there with all proceeds going to the benefit of the Shreveport Greek Church ... The Lieutenant Governor and the Attorney General of Massachusetts attended the first banquet of the Boston, Mass. chapter. ...

James Kakridas of the Boston chapter speaks out in 1924:

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President D. C. Vasiliow of the Lynn, Mass. Chapter #50 writes in 1924:

Another article in that 1924 magazine states that:

(The Lowell, Mass. Ahepa Chapter was finally established in 1926)

The above illustrates graphically the carry over from Greece to the United States of the struggle in Greece between Royalists and Republicans, between King and Premier, for control of the country. From the end of World War I until the early 1920s, it seemed that most Greek immigrants were on one side or the other, and the arguments over Greek politics inevitably carried into the meetings of Greek organizations as well as in Greek Church community meetings. Even those who did not wish to take sides, were eventually forced into the argument.

One of Ahepa's reasons for its establishment was to form an organization on American soil, of Greek immigrants, with no opinions within the Ahepa for either argument, and the enforcement of this Ahepa Constitutional regulation was strictly followed in practically all chapters. Where it was NOT enforced, chaos followed.

To the casual reader, such arguments over Greek politics may seem foolish and unbelievable; but, it must be remembered, that the Greek immigrants were among the most recently-arrived in the United States of all immigrant groups, that their ties with the homeland were strong and recent, and that they all had close family ties in Greece, including parents, and brothers and sisters. The argument was strong and constant in Greece over the Premier, or President Venizelos, and the King; the daily Greek language newspapers published in the United States printed full-length articles on the Greek situation, and they, of course, were also either pro-Venizelos or pro-King. Wherever the Greek newspapers were available, (and that was in practically all communities, through the mails) there also did the argument prevail.

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Mayor Willis Castaing of Tarpon Spring, Florida, member of the Tarpon Springs chapter, was a delegate to the 1924 Washington Supreme Convention … Johnston, Pennsylvania chapter moved into its own Ahepa Home ... The annual banquet of the Dallas, Texas chapter featured speakers Judge Louis Wilson, Judge F. H. Alexander, and Judge Roland, who was President of the Fort Worth Chapter … President Nicholas V. G. Nestor of the Springfield, Massachusetts chapter said:

Supreme President George Demeter appointed the following members as his Vicegerents, or deputies, for purposes of expanding Ahepa chapters in their areas: Arthur Stephos, John Apostoles, George S. Zantos, John Chambers, Arthur Pistolas.

© Copyright Order of AHEPA

George J. Leber's book is copyright protected. However, any portions of this book may be quoted at length, provided that proper credit & acknowledgement is given to the book, author, publisher, and pages.

Citation

Leber, George J. History of the Order of AHEPA 1922 - 1972. Washigton DC, Order of AHEPA, 1972.