John Philip Sousa The March King at Muehlebach Field Kansas City Missouri 1924 Real Photo Postcard
The Ancient Arabic Order of the Nobles of the Mystic Shrine, commonly known as Shriners International, is a Masonic appendant body founded in New York City in 1870. Members, identified by their distinctive red fez, must first be master Masons. The ornate uniforms and fezzes visible, marked with temple names like "ALMAS," "ISLAM BAH," and "SAM BA," indicate members from specific local chapters, likely participating in a parade or ceremonial event during the early to mid-20th century, a period of high popularity for fraternal organizations.
Shriners gained significant public recognition not only for their social activities and parades but also for their extensive philanthropy. The establishment of Shriners Hospitals for Children in the 1920s solidified their reputation for charitable work, providing advanced medical care for children regardless of a family's ability to pay. Public appearances, such as the one depicted, were vital in maintaining their community profile and recruiting new members to support their fraternal and humanitarian endeavors.
Shriners gained significant public recognition not only for their social activities and parades but also for their extensive philanthropy. The establishment of Shriners Hospitals for Children in the 1920s solidified their reputation for charitable work, providing advanced medical care for children regardless of a family's ability to pay. Public appearances, such as the one depicted, were vital in maintaining their community profile and recruiting new members to support their fraternal and humanitarian endeavors.
