The Improved Order of Red Men is a fraternal organization established in 1834, claiming direct descent from the Sons of Liberty. Their rituals and regalia are modeled after those white men of the era assumed were used by Native Americans. The order was formed solely by and for white men. The organization claimed a membership of about half a million in 1935, but has it declined to a little more than 15,000.
Saranac Lake had a chapter, organized in 1900, but there are almost no mentions of it in local historic newspapers; of course copies of the Enterprise before 1948 are almost entirely missing.
Malone Palladium, August 9, 1900
An Improved Order of Red Men has recently been organized at Saranac Lake. “Nehasane” is the name of the new local organization.
Adirondack Enterprise, July 17, 1902
Items from the Saranac Lake column.
...It was announced at the performance [at the Opera House] that Prof. Dolan would arrange a minstrel show for the local Tribe of Red Men, the show to be given at once. Prof. Dolan on second consideration has decided to postpone the performance until later on. as it would be impossible to place the show on as it should be, upon such short notice...
Adirondack Daily Enterprise, February 1, 1955 [For the full article see Spaulding Block]
...The Lodge of Odd Fellows formed in the Spalding Hall and for many years held its meetings there. Other organizations which flourished there since have gone out of existence here, such as the Order of Foresters, the Maccabees, the Red Men and the Independent Order of Good Temperance...
Plattsburgh Daily Republican, August 1, 1933
PRESIDENT WILL BE UNABLE TO ATTEND COUNCIL OF RED MEN
LOCKPORT, N. Y., July 1 (UP) —Word was received here recently from President Roosevelt that because of numerous engagements he would be unable to attend the coming convention of the Great Council of Red Men. The President was initiated into the improved order of Red Men two years ago in Albany, when he was Governor.
