Fraternal/Social Clubs

When I was growing up in Bridgeville, I knew that fraternal/social clubs – the Owls Club and the Italian Club, for example – were an important part of the community’s culture. Initially I thought their prime purpose was to provide a place for thirsty men to get around the Blue Laws and enjoy a glass of wine or a shot and a beer on Sundays. Later I realized that they truly were fraternal organizations that existed so men with similar interests could socialize comfortably. It is not clear when the first lodge or club was organized in Bridgeville. The photograph…