This is Charles Fredrick Weber, Uncle to our Charlotte Weber Trammell. Charles was born June 23, 1879, to John and Emma Weber in Jackson, Michigan. He was the 4th of 5 children born to John and Emma. Charles is the younger brother of Charlotte’s father Albert who was the 3rd child born to John and Emma.

The Masons began in the 16th century. During 20th century America, fraternal groups were prevalent, with over 40% of the male population belonging to at least one fraternal order. The Masons, the Oddfellows, The Elks, and The Moose are a few of these orders one may have found in 20th-century America. They brought together a broad range of classes under the fraternal banner. Many offered insurance and assistance. The orders also made many monuments across the country, many still around today. These groups operated under secret statutes, and I’m sure you were considered a member for life once you were in.

Charles lived in the same town his whole life. His occupation was as a bookkeeper or record keeper throughout his working career. Masons were drawn to those with Charles’ occupation. Professional enough not to be a laborer, but not of the upper class. He is forever embodied as a proud group member from the fez at the top of his head down to the embroidered satin jacket and wide pantaloons tucked into gaiters. His photograph was on a postcard that I’m sure was sent to Charlotte’s family some way. The only writing on the back of the card says Zuave, Uncle Charles.

I hope there may be a way to investigate these organizations, but since so much of what they did was “secret,” I don’t know. I’ve also never actively looked for information on fraternal orders, but I’ve added it to my list of research items and hope that one day I can bring you more information on what Uncle Charles might have done in his fraternal order