AMERICAN COLUMBUS SOCIETY - A.C.S.

Transcribed by Elaine Hubbard
From Las Sabinas Vol. IX 1983 Book 3

On April 13, 1917, immigrants of Sicily and Southern Italy, living in Orange, Texas, formed the “Christofaro Colombo Italian Association”. The first president of the organization was Joe Molley Sr. Directors named for the first year were John Romano, Charles Zeto, Santo Loiacano. And Tony Gengo. Some of the others charter members were Joe DelBarto, George Lorito, Frank Pellettere, John Molley, Ben Blanda, Ben Rao, Jack Alesci, Mike Lucia, John Scirotino, Joe Costa, Pete Ragusa and Joe Denino.

The purpose of the association was to assist and provide for wants and needs of members in good standing, in case of sickness or in case of their incapacity from any cause from pursuit of their avocation; and further to provide for proper interment for any member in good standing at the date of their death and to assist the widows and orphans of the deceased members. The association also held different types of social events for members and their families. Meetings were held at the Woodman of the World building at 110 Border Street.

On June 6, 1928, the Association decided to change the name of their organization. By applying to the Secretary of the State of Texas, the name was changed to American Columbus Society. It was however, generally called “American Columbus Society”, or A.C.S.

About in 1933, the Society built their own building at 108 West Green Avenue where all of their meetings and socials were held. In the middle 1960’s, this building was sold to the American Legion, Lloyd Grubbs Post #49. The A.C.S. continued to hold their meetings in the building for a short time. Few months after the building was sold, the “American Columbus Society” disbanded after being in existence for almost fifty years.

The influence and tradition that these people left will be felt for many years to come. The desire to be an active and working part of their new found home led them to form this organization. They felt by working together in this manner, they would be able help each other and also contribute more to the community. They helped in many ways in the development and growth of Orange. Many of the original members of the A.C.S. started businesses of their own in Orange and continued to run them for many years. Their skills were taught to their descendants, and many of these have continued in the work that they learned from their parents.

This article was submitted by Bubba Voss. The information was obtained from the original charter of A.C.S. and information given by Sam Blanda and Joe Blanda.

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