Colored Elks on Parade Here as Convention Opens

Camden Courier-Post - June 28, 1933

State Lodge to Elect Today; Ball at Convention Hall Tonight

Cheered by Thousands

More than 2000 members of the I.B.P.E., Colored Elks, participated last night in a colorful parade here as climax to the opening day of the tenth annual state convention of the order.

The marchers were reviewed from a stand at the courthouse by J. Finley Wilson, of Philadelphia, grand exalted ruler of the order and his staff.

Pride of Camden Lodge, No. 83, which is acting as host to the visiting members, was led by G. A. Gerran, exalted ruler. Thousands along the line of march applauded their fine appearance in blue and white uniforms.

Among lodges represented were Atlantic City, Orange, Plainfield, Quaker City and O. V. Catto of Philadelphia, Chester and Wilmington lodges and Manhattan Lodge of New York.

Music was provided by many bands, fife and drum corps and string organizations.

The convention was opened in the Kaighn Avenue Baptist Church, Ninth Street and Kaighn Avenue.

William C. Hueston, former assistant solicitor of the U. S. Post Office Department, and Elks’ commissioner of education, addressed the meeting, reporting that the organization spends more than $9000 a year for scholarships for colored students.

The delegates were welcomed to Camden by Assistant Solicitor Lewis Liberman.

Speakers also included William C. Russell of Atlantic City, second vice president of the state association; Ira Hall, past state president; and W. L. Carter, general chairman of the state association committee.

The business sessions are being held in the home of Pride of Camden Lodge, 711 Kaighn Avenue, while the temples are meeting in Wesley A. M. E. Church.

Elections will be held today and the convention will close tonight with a ball at Convention Hall.