Virginia Pythians have this fund to contribute cash to beneficiaries of diseased Pythians

HISTORY OF THE WIDOW'S TRUST

THE KNIGHTS OF PYTHIAS DOMAIN OF VIRGINIA

 

The widow's trust of Pythians of Virginia was organized by a group of men who desired to provide, for their widow's, a sum of money which was readily available to them at the time of their husband's death.

 

At first there were few members. The first benefit paid was $59.40 on December 12, 1935 with a membership of 66 men. Each man paid 90 cents per death plus 10 cents for administrative expenses. Membership increased until 1950. A benefit of $948.60 was paid on March 19, 1950. At that time, there were 1.054 members.

 

Since that time, membership has decreased slowly but steadily. Realizing that membership was declining; it was decided to open up the membership to the Pythian Sisters and to the spouses of both the Brothers and Sisters.

 

In 1978, at the annual meeting, it was voted to pay a minimum benefit of $500 and an adjustment of the assessment to $1.20 per death was made in order to pay this amount.

 

In December 1981, when a low of 410 members was reached, yet another increase in the assessment was fast becoming necessary, unless some other solution could be found to stop the decline in membership. It was decided that the removal of the 50-year limitation would bring in many potential members, who for one reason or another, had failed to join the Trust over the years.

 

A meeting of the officers was requested and on February 6, 1982, the members present voted to eliminate the age limit. The only requirement for joining The Widow's Trust is that your health be good. On February 18, 1988 it was voted to increase the assessment to $1.40 per death. And on February ;?5, 1995, the assessment was increased to its current amount of $2.00 per death.

 

Brothers and Sisters, when you took the obligation to become a Pythian, you were charged with the responsibility of comforting the family of a decreased member. While it is impossible for all of us to visit the family, we can still do our part in a way that is sorely needed - financially. The cost is small, only $3 for each death.

 

The average cost to each member since 1935 has been approximately $21.00 per year. An assessment card is sent out each time accumulations of four deaths occur. This card is for on assessment of $12.00. This is a small price to pay for the grieving family in their time of need.

 

The membership is open to every lodge and temple in Virginia. It is also available to the spouse of the member. You are urged to join The Widow's Trust of Virginia and help your Brother or Sister. For applications, ask your lodge or temple secretary, or contact Bob Beitz, Chairman, for more information.

 

For more information or to join contact Bob Bietz

 

 

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