They're Playing Our SongFraternal Bands
Fraternal organizations were a central part of town
life beginning in the late 19th century. These groups included the Masons,
Lions, Elks, and American Legion.
Many were established in the 1870s and 1880s, at the same time bands were enjoying unprecedented growth. Like the rest of America, these organizations considered music essential to their activities. Men's club bands were very popular. Although many lodges formed their own bands, others hired the town band to provide music at their functions. The banner pictured above declares Marshall's Band as the Official Band of Topeka Knights Templar. Lewis Post No. 294 of the Grand Army of the Republic was located in Dodge City. Pictured at left is a snare drum from the Post's band.
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