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Archiver > IMPROVED-ORDER-OF-RED-MEN > 2008-03 > 1205628660


From: "Nancy McNicol" <>
Subject: [IMPROVED-ORDER-OF-RED-MEN] introduction and request
Date: Sat, 15 Mar 2008 20:51:00 -0400


Greetings,



I'm new to this list. I live in Connecticut, but my family largely
originates from Otsego and Schoharie Counties in New York State.

I very recently learned that my great grandfather, James Packer, was a
member and long-standing officer in the

Powhatten Tribe No. 51 in Oneonta from 1888 to 1910. Previous to this I had
never heard of this order. I have no information among

his effects and papers that mention this, including his obituary. I only
learned of it through tracking down a business card from another

member that I found in the family Bible.



I've read about the order on their current website, but am trying to learn a
little more about who would have joined this group and why?

What was its significance in Oneonta? In New York at the time? I see that
one does not have to be of Native American descent, but that rituals are
based on those created by Native Americans. Also, the website says
(although other sources seem to question the claim) that the group is the
modern incarnation of the Sons of Liberty. Did people who joined this order
in the 1800s have a particular affinity to history or American Indians or
was it just a forerunner of more modern fraternal organizations that served
as a source of business contacts?



Any information would be greatly appreciated.



Thank you.

Nancy McNicol

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