Ancient Order of United Workmen, Newhall Lodge No. 218.
The Ancient Order of United Workmen was America’s first fraternal or mutual benefit organization to the extent that it provided financial protection to its members in the form of insurance — life insurance at first, and later medical and other types of insurance. In the beginning, members paid $1 and their survivors received $500 when they died; the payout was soon increased to $2,000. When a member died, each member would pay another $1 to replenish the fund.
According to the online Masonic Museum and Library, the A.O.U.W. was started by a Mason, John Jordan Upchurch, in Meadville, Penn., in 1868, shortly after the conclusion of the Civil War. It was a time of urbanization and industrialization. “ The railroads created the potential for national markets,” and factories “created opportunities that tempted many people to move away from the farms, villages, and hamlets to pursue their fortunes in the growing urban centers.
Upchurch’s idea was to adjust “all differences which may arise between employers and employees” for the benefit of both, in the belief that “the interests of labor and capital are equal and should receive equal protection.” The initial members in 1868 consisted of mechanics, engineers, firemen and day laborers on the Atlantic and Great Western Railroad, and the merchants who serviced them.
The organization used a lodge system, like other (later) fraternal organizations, and it used Masonic symbols including the all-seeing eye, the Bible, anchor and compasses. Its motto was “Charity, Hope and Protection.”
By 1884, there was a Newhall lodge of the A.O.U.W. (No. 218). Members came from all parts of the SCV, including present-day Canyon Country. Among the local group’s officer positions were doctor and medical examiner (i.e., coroner). By 1885 the A.O.U.W. was the nation’s largest fraternal organization; as of 1895 its national membership exceeded 318,000.
In 1929 the organization’s leadership decided to abandon the lodge system in favor of a national congress. Individual lodges disbanded; some morphed into life insurance companies.
ADVERTISE WITH US
Monthly Message from City Manager Ken Striplin Skyline Ranch Park – Welcoming the City’s 38th Park!
Feel the breeze and take in the sweeping views at the City’s 38th park, Skyline Ranch Park, a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages. Opening to the public on Saturday, April 6, Skyline Ranch Park, located at 18355 Skyline Ranch Road, will provide...
Live Music on Three Stages at the Santa Clarita Cowboy Festival
Dust off Your Cowboy Boots for a Full Lineup of Country, Western, Folk and Bluegrass The 28th Annual Santa Clarita Cowboy Festival is back with your favorite musical performers and an exciting lineup of new acts. Taking place on Saturday, April 20 and Sunday,...
Calling Young Musicians in Grades 9-12 – Santa Clarita Symphony Orchestra
Applications are now open for Santa Clarita Symphony Orchestra’s first ever youth concerto competition! Students in grades 9-12 in the Santa Clarita Valley and surrounding areas are eligible. The competition was developed to inspire and encourage growth of...
ABOUT THE MAGAZINE
Santa Clarita Magazine has set a high standard for excellence in advertising for over 34 years. A family owned and operated business, Santa Clarita Magazine has grown with the Santa Clarita Valley since 1990 and become the #1 place to advertise locally.
FOLLOW US
SANTA CLARITA MAGAZINE
PO Box 801570
Valencia Ca 91380
For Advertising information
Call or Text: 1 (661) 294-4444