This collection contains the records of the Platrix Chapter (Los Angeles) of E Clampus Vitus (Fraternal order).

E Clampus Vitus was a benevolent social organization prominent in California during the Gold Rush; it existed as a burlesque of the usual fraternal societies, but it also engaged in charitable activities. It is thought to have started in western Virginia or eastern Pennsylvania, traveled to the Midwest, then overland with the Forty-niners to California. There are rival claims in California for the location of the first chapter: Downieville, Sierra City, and Stockton. It was revived in 1932 by historian Carl I. Wheat and others with the establishment of the "Yerba Buena" chapter in San Francisco. A year later a chapter was formed in Los Angeles, known as the "Platrix" chapter. This irreverent organization was founded mainly for fun and as a social organization for men interested in Western history. There are now chapters throughout the state that hold treks to various locations and install historical plaques.

8 Linear Feet (5 boxes, 4 folders)

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