Independent Order of Vikings
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
 | |
| Established | June 2, 1890 |
|---|---|
| Founded at | Chicago, United States |
| Type | Mutual aid society |
Region served | United States |
| Website | iovikings |
The Independent Order of Vikings is a Swedish-American fraternal organization promoting Swedish culture and language. It was founded in Chicago in the 1890s and has members throughout the United States.
Authorities differ as to the order's date of foundation. Alan Axelrod states that it was founded on June 2, 1890, in Chicago,[1] while Alvin J. Schmidt states it was founded in 1896, at the same city.[2]
The group provides insurance benefits, as well as organizing events celebrating Swedish traditions and culture. These activities have included languages classes on Scandinavian languages as well as song and dance programs for traditional Scandinavian music and dance. Lodges have also sponsored bowling and golfing events.[3]
Its charitable activities have included participating in blood drives, visiting hospitalized and sick members and sponsoring scholarships.[4] By 1923 it operated a home for aged members.[5]
The group provides life insurance and other financial products to its members as well as conducting social activities celebrating Scandinavian culture.[6] By 1923 it did business in Illinois, Indiana, Michigan and Nebraska.[7]
Membership
In 1923 the order was open to men of Swedish birth or descent and had 10,643 benefit members and 58 social members.[8]
By the 1970s membership was open to Swedes, people of Swedish descent or a person married to the same. There were 10,500 members in the mid 1960s and 9,500 in 1978.[9] There were 9,300 members in 1995.[10]
