William Marconi Lodge of Mutual Benefit (Leechburg, Pa.)

Also known as Società Guglielmo Marconi di mutuo soccorso.

From the description of Records, 1911-1979 [microform]. (University of Pittsburgh). WorldCat record id: 154691272

The last decade of the 19th and the first of the 20th centuries saw a great increase in the number of Italian immigrants settling in Leechburg, Pa. and the surrounding mining areas. Their growing need for a social and mutual benefits society resulted in the formation of the Società Guglielmo Marconi di Mutuo Soccorso (William Marconi Lodge of Mutual Benefit). Application for a Charter of Incorporation was filed on Jan. 10, 1911. On Feb. 7, 1911, a charter was granted and recorded in the office of the Recorder of Deeds in Armstrong County. The first monthly meeting of the William Marconi Lodge was held on Feb. 12, 1911. Until 1916 the regular monthly meetings were held in the Odd Fellows Hall. On April 2, 1916, the William Marconi Lodge held its first meeting in its permanent Leechburg home, Marconi Lodge, the former Favor Building at 135 River Street. At the time, there were 383 charter members. Second Freilino obtained permission from William Marconi, an engineer and inventor, for the use of his name for the Lodge. The lodge chose to represent the wireless telegraph of Marconi in its emblem and seal by depicting transmitting and receiving signal towers with an ocean liner at sea in between. The William Marconi Lodge has flourished since its inception, providing social life, giving sick benefits and otherwise helping its members, and sponsoring sports activities such as softball, baseball, bocce, and bowling. Many of its members have served in the armed services.

From the description of Records of William Marconi Lodge of Mutual Benefit, Leechburg, Pa., 1911-1979 [microform]. (University of Pittsburgh). WorldCat record id: 28412508