State Sen. Andy Dinniman recently joined with members and families of St. Anthony's Lodge to mark the 100th anniversary of the Italian-American fraternal organization that has influenced the lives of Chester County residents.
In recognition of the milestone event, Dinniman presented Anthony Mascherino, secretary of the board of trustees and co-chair of the 100th Anniversary Committee, with a special Senate citation at the organization's 100th Anniversary Banquet.
St. Anthony's Lodge was established on Nov. 26, 1919, with approximately 40 members at a building at the corner of Stuart and Lancaster avenues in Downingtown. The purpose was to encourage a social and neighborly atmosphere, accumulate funds from dues for members who fell ill or injured, and provide for wives and families after death.
Over time, the group moved from place to place before breaking ground at its current location on Church Street in 1929. The lodge added a women's auxiliary organization in 1949, a swim club in 1959, and other facility improvements, including a full-service restaurant with a banquet and catering hall. It has also offered many other social and service opportunities.
The organization is known for its annual Frog Leg Party, which began in 1934 and continues today. In addition to social events, the lodge is active in the community and gives back to charitable organizations to benefit neighbors in need. Over the past 100 years, St. Anthony's Lodge has contributed an estimated $1 million to churches, hospitals, medical research, veterans organizations, education, scholarships, adult and youth activities, annual community events, local charities, and youth organizations.
In recent years, the lodge has experienced a resurgence of activity and involvement from younger residents and their families. Today, its membership numbers are approximately 200 beneficial members and about 2,000 social members.
The banquet rounded out a year of centennial celebration events, including a wine tasting, classic car and motorcycle show, bicycle ride, family picnic, Mass to honor St. Anthony, and dedication of a stained-glass window at the new St. Joseph's Church in Downingtown. In addition, an original painting, "The First 100 Years" by Adrian Martinez, was unveiled at the banquet.
For more information, readers may visit http://www.saintanthonyslodge.com.
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