3 WRIGHT BROTHERS & A "LAST MAN'S" CLUB
Charlotte K. and August E. Brunsman
October 9, 1991

A Digest Of the Minutes Of The Club From October 9, 1886 Through October 4, 1939

PREFACE

Two Wright brothers, Wilbur and Orville, earned their place in history.

Three Wright brothers, Reuchlin, Lorin, and Wilbur also have a place...thanks to their friend, Edgar W. Ellis.

Recalling stories of "last man's clubs" formed by Civil War soldiers, Ellis, a 22 year old soap maker and traveling salesman, in 1886 approached Joseph Boyd, a salesman, with the idea of forming such a group. Both lived near Bishop Milton Wright's family in the western part of Dayton, Ohio. Reuchlin, Lorin and Wilbur Wright were invited to join. Had Orville, who was then 15, been older he likely would have been included.

The first meeting of the new organization was held on October 9, 1886 at the residence of Reuchlin Wright, the eldest of the Wright children. The Constitution provided the name, "The Annual Club of Ten Dayton Boys." Reuchlin was elected president. Edgar W. Ellis, secretary.

Through the centuries, the fascination of "'last man's clubs" had evolved from the concept of "tontines," speculative groups based on mankind's mortality in which each participant deposited a sum with the assurance that during his lifetime he would receive interest income. Investors were divided into age brackets, often in seven-year spans, e.g., 22 to 28. At death, heirs received nothing from the fund; the surviving members of the bracket shared in the interest payments formerly made to the deceased. The last survivor received all of the interest originally shared by his group's members. At his death, the principal passed to the government which established that "tontine." The groups were named for Lorenzo Tonti who proposed the plan to the French government in the 17th century.(Webster's New International Dictionary of the English Language, 2nd ed., unabridged.)

Recognizing their vulnerability and helping, to relieve the stress of the battle field, soldiers organized, "last man's clubs." These pacts usually included the obligation for the survivors to maintain contact (sometimes through annual reunions), to furnish reports of their status and location, and often involved an alcoholic beverage. A favorite was a bottle of champagne, with its label autographed by the founding members, to be consumed by the last survivor.

One of the "last man's clubs," a vestige of the Civil War, had its final meeting in Stillwater, Minnesota on July 21, 1930. When he drank a toast from a bottle of sour wine, Charles Lockwood, 87, of Chamberlain, South Dakota, fulfilled a pledge made on July 25, 1885 at a reunion of 34 Civil War survivors. Meeting as the last members of Company B, First Minnesota Volunteer Infantry they resolved to form the club. Annual meetings were held.

An autographed bottle of wine from the 1885 reunion was reserved for the "last man" and was taken from its vault to stand on the table at each annual banquet. The empty bottle was presented to the Washington County Historical Museum in Stillwater. Several years before the final meeting a curious member "tested" the wine and found it had turned to vinegar.

Lockwood died on October 5,1935.(The Augusta Chronicle, Augusta, Georgia, December 26, 1929.) Since"The Annual Club of Ten Dayton Boys" was organized on October 9, 1886 after Edgar W. Ellis had "read of young soldiers of the civil war (sic) having formed a "last man's club," and of the death of the last man," it is unlikely that the Stillwater club was his inspiration.

Twentieth century military groups were the nuclei of similar clubs. On Christmas eve 1929, 14 veterans of the Company C, 106th Field Signal Battalion, 31st Division met to form "The Last Man's Club of the Richmond Hussars." The "Hussars" was the military antecedent of the group and dated back to its formation, in the 1790's as 'Troop of Horse, Troop of Cavalry, Troop of Dragoons" and was known as 'The Richmond Hussars" until 1917 when the 'Troop of Cavalry" was given its new designation. Annual meetings are held in Augusta, Georgia.(The Last Man's Club of the Richmond Hussars, Richmond, Virginia.)

Another variation was the informal group established in 1942 to include "all former employees of the U.S. Air Mail Service of the Post Office Department between August 12, 1918 and August 31, 1927." All such persons were automatically included in the "membership" without dues or obligation. Financing was by voluntary contributions. It was organized as "The Last Man Pioneer Air Mail Club."

Because of the massive number of "members" and the record keeping and organization entailed, the name was changed, in 1953, to "Air Mail Pioneers." The second edition of the Club's publication, the Roll Call, in 1956, reported that 68 of the 555 persons listed in the 1943 edition were now known to be deceased.(The Roll Call, 2nd ed., AIR MAIL PIONEERS, 1956.)

In 1988 Albert Furrer, the last survivor of a World War I "last man's club" died in San Pablo, California at the age of 97. That club was formed by 32 World War I veterans in 1932. A bottle of 1921 champagne was placed in a mahogany and glass case bearing the inscription, "Dedicated to the Last Man. Long May He Live," and was displayed at the annual meetings.

One of the obligations of membership was attendance, if possible, at the meeting held on Veterans Day each year. The last survivor was to receive, and drink, the champagne and to receive any funds remaining in the treasury. Furrer reported that while the treasury had included as much as $30,000 it was depleted by the annual meeting expenses and by assistance given to needy members. As the "last man," Furrer received only the bottle of champagne, which had turned sour. Furrer gave it, in its mahogany and glass box to the Contra Costa County (California) Historical Society.(Los Angeles Times, Page 26, Col. 4, February 21, 1989)

In 1932, 286 World War I veterans, members of Post 48, Stillwater, Minnesota, met at the site of the 1885 founding of the "Last Man's Club" in Stillwater to form a "last man's club," named in World War I fashion, 'The Last Buddies' Bully Beef Club."(Los Angeles Times, Page 26, Col. 4, February 21, 1989, Hussars.) Charles Lockwood, the last survivor of the Company B, First Minnesota Volunteer Infantry "last man's club," gave the new group a symbolic bottle of French cognac and a tin of "bully beef," a souvenir of World War I rations. Six of the members survive; one is more than 100 years old. Annual meetings are held at the Stillwater Legion post on Washington's birthday. The cognac is intact but the "bully beef" had to be discarded when the container rusted through.

The 65 detailed minutes of the meetings of the "Annual Club of Ten Dayton Boys," beginning with the organizing meeting and ending with a time line of each of the ten original members, fill 207 pages of a 512 page leather-bound journal. The last entry, by an unknown recorder reads, "Edgar W. Ellis died Jan 29, 1951, the 10th (to die).

The journal was given to The Dayton and Montgomery County (Ohio) Public Library by Ellis' widow and is preserved, together with a framed photograph of the group arranged by member Frank J. Gilbert on October 30, 1886.

Ellis' sustained interest in the Club is evidenced by his writing 60 of the 65 minutes. He served as president in 1890 and was the last survivor. The 1890 minutes record that "Mr. E. W. Ellis, founder of the Club presented the Club with a handsome gavel made of ten different kinds of wood to represent the ten members of the Club." That memento is owned by Marianne Boyd Myers (Mrs. C. William) of Cincinnati, Ohio. She is the granddaughter of the second member of the group, Joseph Boyd.

The Minute Book is significant for several reasons: It is unique in preserving the life patterns of nine of the ten original members. (Irvin G. Koogle withdrew from the Club in 1898. All of the others remained active until their deaths.) The minutes capture their camaraderie and record passages of their lives. The bountiful annual banquet menus image Victorian society just as the succeeding "carry-in" stag lunches reflect the members' altered domestic lives.

The membership of the three Wright brothers together with their detailed "time lines" delineate their family's position in the community and imply subtle intra-family relationships.

There is no record that Ellis' four-stanza poem memorializing Wilbur, who died May 30, 1912, was ever published. It is part of the October 12, 1912 minutes.

While the Minute Book was given to the Library in October, 1952, recent research by Nancy Horlacher (Mrs. Jeff), of the Library staff, and Jeanne Palermo (Mrs. P. F.) curator of Dayton's Carillon Historical Park, brought it to our attention.

Marianne Myers was especially helpful by making available the August 25, 1945 letter from Ellis to her father, Everett M. Boyd, son of Joseph Boyd and managing editor of the Cincinnati Enquirer at that time. It is reproduced on the following pages and makes clear Ellis' part in the life of the Club.

Since our earlier work has been with the printing and publishing careers of Wilbur and Orville, we found special delight in the connections between "The Annual Club of Ten Dayton Boys" and the brothers' work as printers. Elaborate banquet menus for 1891, 1898, and 1899 were printed by the Wrights and are on display at Carillon Historical Park. Three small books containing minutes of the Club were printed: one by "Orville Wright, Job Printer" in 1886 and two by "Wright Bros., Job Printers" in 1888 and 1889. Copies of these booklets are in the Havighurst Collection of the King Library, Miami University, Oxford, Ohio. A cat illustration on the back of each of these was printed from a woodcut made by Wilbur Wright which is on display at Carillon Historical Park.

In preparing this digested version of the Minute Book, we have included at least a portion of the record of every occasion. Deletions are indicated by ellipses ( . . . ). Because of the special place of the Wrights in history, their "status reports" are quoted more often than others.

It is rewarding to find Wilbur's employment, when he was 19, was as a "Clerk in J. I. Hoffman's Grocery." Ellis expands upon that in his August 25, 1945 letter to indicate that the salary was six dollars per week. Since this was not part of the October 9, 1886 recording of his employment, it doesn't have the same authority as the Minute Book.

Wilbur's sense of humor and mastery of detail make the October 11, 1890 minutes of special interest. Written by him when he was 23 years old and in the "job printing" business with Orville, it carries a sense of the emerging communication skill which served so well in the "aeronautical years" to come. Because the Club officers were regularly rotated (except for Ellis' dominance of the office of secretary) they are generally omitted in this digest. Particular attention is called to the footnote to Wilbur's "time line" as it relates to his being a "bicycle manufacturer." See also the footnote relating to the death of Irvin G. Koogle.

The continuing "discovery" of significant Wright family artifacts and writings brings satisfaction which we encourage other, more qualified, researchers to pursue.

Charlotte K. & August E. Brunsman
April 4, 1991

EDITOR'S NOTE: In presenting Edgar Ellis' letter and the digest of the "Minutes" and the 'Timeline" of the members, every effort has been made to retain original rhetoric, punctuation and spelling. Obvious errors are presented as written. A few historically incorrect items are indicated by the addition of Editor's Notes or footnotes.

LETTER FROM EDGAR W. ELLIS TO EVERETT M. BOYD
August 25, 1945
ANNUAL CLUB OF TEN DAYTON BOYS

When I was quite young I read of a club composed of young soldiers of the civil war having formed a "last man club", and of the death of the last man. It impressed me at the time but I think that the seed fell on stony ground and I forgot it until in the later summer of 1886, when in conversation with a friend of mine, Joseph Boyd of Dayton, he informed me that he intended soon to send his young wife to Denver, Colorado. This information caused the "last man club" idea to bubble again and I talked it over with Mr. Boyd, (who by the way, was years later to become the father of the present managing editor of the Cincinnati Enquirer). Mr. Boyd falling in with the idea, he and I carefully chose a third member, and then we three a fourth and so on until there were ten. These ten held a meeting, adopted a constitution or set of rules, elected officers and started the Club going, not having much idea where, or when it would stop. The name chosen was, The Annual Club of Ten Dayton Boys.

This formal beginning was on the ninth of October, eighteen hundred and eighty-six, in the City of Dayton, Ohio, and the last meeting was held in that city on October, fourth, nineteen hundred and thirty-nine at the home of Lorin Wright. Mr. Wright was at that time confined to his bed and he and this writer were the only living members. Mr. Wright died in December of that year.

The stated meetings of the Club were held on the second Saturday of October of each year. At each regular yearly meeting all of the Club members who could possibly do so were present: those who could not attend sent letters telling at length of their doings during the year, which letters were read at the meetings.

All of the members were good citizens, were fairly successful, but only one of them achieved greatness.

He was Wilbur Wright who with his brother Orville invented the airplane. Three of the sons of Bishop Wright were members of the club and if Orville had been older he would have been asked to join it. Wilbur Wright was the youngest member; his entrance record shows that he was at the time of the organization, nineteen years of age, a clerk in a corner grocery at a salary of six dollars per week. He was the Club's youngest member and he was the first member to die. His death occurred on the thirtieth day of May, nineteen hundred and twelve. This club never sought publicity and probably would never have had any outside of the City of Dayton if it had not been for the success of Wilbur Wright. On the return of the Wrights, from France in 1909, the City of Dayton together with the State of Ohio and the United States held a two-day celebration in their honor. During these two days this club was in full charge of the Wright family to see that they all were at the proper place at the proper time.

On that occasion this club being pretty much in evidence, World's Work devoted quite a lot of space to it and published a picture of the members. All of the Club members were present for the first time in several years.

It is quite easy to see that if in the organization of a so-called "last man's club" there should be a few who lost interest in it, it would seriously detract from its success if indeed it did not entirely defeat its purpose. The friendship existing among the members of this particular club at the beginning, became closer as the years passed, and no one who has not become the last member of such an organization can realize the feeling of lonesomeness and total loss that comes to him when the time for the yearly meeting arrives and he knows that he is alone.

Edgar W. Ellis
(Transcribed from the original,
courtesy of Marianne Boyd Myers
(Mrs. C. William) daughter of Everett M. Boyd.)

The Wright brothers have so clearly taken a permanent place - an immortal place - in the history of inventions and of civilization that everything about these men already has an historic importance. Especially interesting are facts about their early experiments.

Yet few such facts are known: for they are surely among the most reticent of famous men. Their faces are familiar to all the world that sees illustrated journals, and their feats are known to all who read. Many thousands of persons have seen them fly. Yet if you were asked about their lives, and especially about the way in which they came to work out one of the greatest of all inventions, you would have to reply that there are few definite facts of common knowledge. The public knows as much about Watt's perfection of the steam-engine as about the Wrights' invention of the aeroplane, and more about Morse's early work with the telegraph or about Bell's with the telephone.

Dayton, O., the city that held their momentous secret for five years because it did not think it worth telling, was, up to the time when the Wrights were "discovered" at Kitty Hawk in North Carolina, known to the big world chiefly as the home of a cash-register company. But it is much more than that. It is a solid industrial town of 150,000 people, in the center of a rich farm country.

World's Work, a popular current events magazine, published this photograph of the nine members of The Annual club of Ten Dayton boys which was taken during the 1909 two-day Wright Brothers' Homecoming Celebration in Dayton, Ohio. Made in the side yard of the Wright family's 7 Hawthorn Street home, it includes Wilbur, in the back row, center. The others wear insignia identifying them as hosts for the Wright family during the celebration.

October 9, 1886
The Annual Club of Ten Dayton Boys
[Minutes and constitution]
Dayton Ohio Oct. 9 - 1886.

On Saturday October 9th 1886 there assembled at the residence of Reuchlin Wright~, 1533 W. Second St. -- Dayton, Ohio several young men for the purpose of organizing an annual social club. Order was called by W. E. Landis and on motion Reuchlin Wright was chosen temporary chairman and E W (sic) Ellis temporary secretary. A committee composed (sic) of Jos. Boyd, W. E. Landis, I. G. Koogle, and R. Wright was appointed to draft a constitution. The following constitution was adopted.

The Constitution

The object of this organization shall be to preserve a closer relation of friendship existing between its members, and to keep them posted as to the future lives of their fellow members (sic).

Article 2.
Sec. 1. This organization shall meet annually, on the second Saturday in October.

Sec. 2. The Place of meeting shall be determined by an executive committee consisting of the officers of the club.

Sec. 2. It shall be the duty of the President to preside at all the meetings of the club, and he shall be empowered to appoint all the committees not otherwise provided for.

Sec. 3. It shall be the duty of the Vice-President to assume the office of The President in the absence of that officer.

Sec. 4. The Secretary shall keep a record of the proceedings of all meetings of the club, spread upon the minutes a personal record of all the members, and furnish each member a copy of the minutes.

Sec. 5. The Treasurer shall keep all moneys of the club and pay out the same on the order of the Executive Committee.

Sec. 2. Each member of the club present at any banquet shall be liable to any assessment by the official board, that body may see proper to make.

A motion of Mr. Andrews "to have our Constitution printed and that each member have a copy thereof, was carried. Mr. Andrews moved "that the members be assessed one dollar to defray expenses of a banquet to be held in October 1886." Carried.

The following are the names, addresses, occupations and family record of the members.

HISTORY OF THE TEN DAYTON BOYS

Acting upon a motion adopted in the first meeting of The Annual Club of Ten Dayton Boys, "Orville Wright, Job Printer" printed a ten-page "History of ten Dayton boys" when he was 15 years old. The cat illustration on the back cover was engraved by Wilbur Wright. The original woodcut is in the "Wright & Wright, Printers" exhibit in Dayton's Carillon Historical Park. Original copies of this and the 1888 and 1889 booklets of the Club's minutes, printed by "Wright Bros., Job Printers" are in the Havighurst Special collection of the King Library at Miami University, Oxford, Ohio.

1886

The Banquet.

The first annual banquet of the club was held at the residence of W. A. Andrews Home Ave., Dayton, Ohio., on the evening of the 23rd of Oct. 1886.

All the members were present except Wilbur Wright.

The following ladies were also present: Mistresses Lulu Wright, Laura Olinger, Anna Boyd, and Anna Ellis, and Misses Lottie Davidson, May Weaver, and Netta Stokes. At the first table were seated C. W. Olinger and wife, R. Wright and wife, E. W. Ellis and wife, F. J. Gilbert and Miss May Weaver. At the second were Jos. Boyd and wife, Lorin Wright and Miss Netta Stokes, W. A- Andrews and Miss Lottie Davidson, W. E. Landis and I.G. Koogle.

The rest of the evening was spent in social enjoyment and at a late hour the company dispersed, with many wishes for each other's happiness during the coming year.

The Picture
At a called meeting, held on the evening of the banquet it was agreed that on the following Saturday Oct. 30th at 12:30, P.M. all members of the club should meet at Wolfe's Art Gallery to have a group picture of the club taken. Special thanks are due to Mr. Frank Gilbert for favors rendered.

A Pleasant Occasion.
On Saturday evening Nov. 20th, the members of the club were summoned to meet at 142 S. Williams St. Dayton, Ohio. and upon being called to order by the president Mr. I.G. Koogle announced that Bro. Joseph Boyd who had removed to Denver, Colo. had left with him a package to be opened in the presence of the club. the package proved to contain nine copies of "Ibe Ohio Teacher's Blue Book", for the public schools of Ohio, a publication of our esteemed fellow-member Joseph Boyd. The book contains a list of all the superintendents and teachers of the schools of Ohio, with the salary of each, and many other points of valuable information concerning the schools of Ohio. On motion of R. Wright, the secretary was instructed to communicate to Bro. Boyd the sincere thanks of his fellow-members for the beautiful gift. The whole club united in wishing our friend and his estimable companion every joy and blessing that might reasonably be hoped for. Thus we begin to Scatter.

1887

Dayton Ohio Oct 8th 1887
The Annual Club of Ten Dayton Boys held its second annual meeting October 8, - 1887 at the residence of E. W. Ellis, 1615 West Fifth St., Dayton, Ohio. The club was called to order by the president, Reuchlin Wright.

A motion to have the minutes of the meeting printed was carried.

The Dayton & Montgomery County Public Library
On October 30, 1886, three weeks after the organization of The Annual Club of Ten Dayton Boys, Frank J. Gilbert arranged for this photo to be made In the studio of Wolfe's Art Gallery where he was employed. The members are, Front Row. Frank J. Gilbert, Irvin G. Koogle, William Andrews, Joseph Boyd, and Lorin Wright; Back Row: Wilbur E. Landis, Reuchlin Wright, Wilbur Wright, Charles W. Olinger, and Edgar W. Ellis.

The Banquet.

The second banquet was held at the residence of Mr. Ellis on the evening of October 8th 1887.

The following persons were present: Mr. and Mrs. Reuchlin Wright, Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Boyd, Mr. and Mrs. E. W. Ellis, L J. Gilbert and Miss Etta Mentel, Wm Andrews and Miss Lottie Davidson, I. G. Koogle and Miss Gertie Sanders, C. W. Olinger, W. E. Landis, and Wilbur Wright.

The evening was pleasantly and profitably spent, and it was nearing the wee small(sic) hours when we bade one another adieu for another year.

Before leaving Mr. F. J. Gilbert presented each lady and gentleman present, with a cabinet photo, an exact copy of the larger picture of the club which was made one year ago. It is a present which all appreciate highly. Thus safely have we come through another year without death having made any inroads upon us. What awaits us in the future who can tell?

1888

Dayton, Ohio, Oct. 13, 1888.
The third meeting of the Annual Club of Ten Dayton Boys was held at the residence of the president Reuchlin Wright 132 South Baxter Street, Dayton, Ohio, October 13, 1888.

The members present were as follows: Reuchlin Wright, William Andrews, W. E. Landis, Frank J. Gilbert, E. W. Ellis, Charles W. Olinger, Irvin G. Koogle, and Wilbur Wright. Lorin Wright was absent.

The minutes of the previous meeting held at the residence of E. W. Ellis were read corrected and approved. Quite an animated discussion arose from a few remarks made by the secretary in regard to the time when the newly elected officers should take their seats, resulting in E. W. Ellis offering an amendment to Article III., (sic) Section 1, of The Constitution, which read as follows:

Officers.
Section 1. The officers of this club shall consist of a president, secretary, and treasurer. Who shall take their seats at the next regular meeting following their election after the reading of the minutes of the preceding year.

There being no second to the amendment, the club proceeded to further business, seemingly of more importance, yet the proposed amendment will be one of considerable consequence to the secretaries of the club in time to come.

The club feeling the need of a regular routine of business, William Andrews moved that a committee of three be appointed to draft an amendment to The Constitution, providing the "Order of Business," which was adopted--the committee to report immediately.

The president appointed the following committee: William Andrews, Wilbur Wright, and Irvin Koogle.

The committee immediately withdrew to an adjoining room, and in a few moments returned, bringing with them the result of their arduous labors in the form of an amendment to The Constitution, which read as follows:

Article IX Order of Business. The order of business at the annual meetings shall be as follows: Reading of minutes. Report of Treasurer. Installation of officers. Reports of members. Unfinished business. Election of officers. By motion, the amendment was tabled for an indefinite period.

The amendment of E. W. Ellis was again revived, and, by a rising vote, unanimously adopted.

The report of the committee on Order of Business was then taken from the table and in a like manner adopted. The Treasurers report was then read and approved.

The secretary then proceeded to read the reports of the individual members, as to their occupation, and other particulars concerning their lives. The reports are here affixed:

Edgar W. Ellis: -- I am twenty-four years of age, married and have one child. By occupation I am still traveling for L.M. Brown's soap works, and also making soap. During the year I have been occupied as above reported, have enjoyed life, and reside at the corner of fifth (sic) Street and Euclid Avenue, Dayton, Ohio.

I fully expect to be happy in the knowledge that Harrison and Morton will be elected this fall.

Joseph Boyd: -- To the Annual Club of Ten Dayton Boys, Dayton, Ohio: - In accordance with the time-honored customs of the club, of which I have the honor of being a member, I submit my report for the year since we last met.

Part of the year I have been very busy getting out the "Blue Book" for 1887-88; part of it has been spent in traveling; not altogether for pleasure, but as a mixture, two thirds of said mixture being most awfully hard work, as the other commercial tourists of the honorable body can testify to. In that time I have taken five trips, in only four states -- Ohio, Indiana, West Virginia, and Pennsylvania- -- in all not aggregating much over thirteen hundred miles.

In company with my wife, I visited the expositions in Cincinnati and Columbus, in honor of this, Ohio's centennial year. We spent several days there, as we did not expect to have time to attend the next one.

Am feeling able to be on deck and attend to business; especially able to meet and exterminate three square meals a day, and hope to be able to meet with the Annuals next year, and many thereafter.

In conclusion, I wish all the best of success, not only in this, Ohio's centennial year, but in all the years to come; and with the rest of the married men of the club, I extend my heart-felt sympathies to the same bashful gang that was single when we last met, and hope that before leap year is over, the girls will tell them what to say to secure eternal bliss.

According to the constitution, I solemnly swear that I am twenty-eight years of age, reside at the corner of Third Street and Broadway, and the number in the family remains the same.

Reuchlin Wright resides at 132 Baxter Street, Dayton, Ohio. He is twenty-seven Years old, and has a wife and one child. He is temporarily employed as assistant book-keeper at the office of S. J. Patterson & Company, South Ludlow Street. There has occurred to him no unusual experiences during the year. Simply the same old boy.

Wilbur Wright has reached the magic year of his age--twenty-one--and resides with his parents at No. 7 Hawthorne Street, Dayton, Ohio. He claims to be the patron of an employment agency. Fortunately he is not embarrassed with a female appendage.

Irvin G. Koogle resides with his parents on the Wolf Creek Pike Harrison Township, and he attained the age of twenty-six--the age at which he should be superintending the affairs of a small and thriving family, but is not. He is excusable, owing to the fact that he is superintending a half interest in the firm of H. V. Koogle & Son, and therefore has enough to see to without being married.

Frank J. Gilbert is twenty-two years of age, and resides with his mother at 1237 West Third Street. He is a photographer by profession, and is in the employ of M. Wolfe, 106 South Main Street, Dayton, Ohio. To all appearances he is unmarried and there is no visible increase in his family.

Charles W. Olinger resides at 79 Vine Street, Dayton, Ohio, is thirty years of age, and is in the employ of the National Cash Register Company, as a machinist. He is to be congratulated on being able to report one more Olinger for the banquet, having now a bright little boy and girl.

Lorin Wright has resided for the past year in Coldwater, Commach County, Kansas, and is in the employ of the county as deputy treasurer under Darroch. He has reached the venerable age of twenty-five. As to his family relations I am not posted, but believe him to be unmarried. In his last letter he stated he would vacate his office in a few days in favor of a Democrat. Am not advised as to his future intentions.

William Andrews resides 435 Home Avenue, Dayton, Ohio, and has reached the age of thirty-six years, the last year of his life having been spent in the employ of Mull & Underwood, as traveling salesman. It is a lamentable fact that he is unmarried--so say the married men of the club.

Wilbur E. Landis: - To the A.C.T.D.B.: I have the pleasure of reporting to you that I have a pleasant and comfortable home with my uncle and aunt Mr. and Mrs. A. H. Reist, at 610 West Fifth Street and would be pleased to entertain any members of the club at the above number. I have just been made painfully acquainted with the fact that I have arrived at the advanced age of twenty-six from the scarcity of hair on the top of my head. Whether this is caused from the fact of my following the avocation of a printer is a question in my mind for it is a generally conceded point that the majority of printers are bald. I have good company though; for the United Brethren Publishing House has in its employ quite a number of baldies and bachelors, as I am myself.

Considerable discussion was had as to the propriety of holding the banquet on the same evening as the business meeting of the club, resulting in an amendment to Article V. of the Constitution being offered, which was unanimously adopted, the amendment reading as follows:

Annual Banquet.
A banquet shall be held annually on the second Saturday in October, or at such other time as the Executive Committee may appoint at the place of the meeting chosen by said committee, and it shall be the duty of each member to be present at said banquet whenever possible.

By motion, it was then decided to hold this year's banquet at the residence of Frank J. Gilbert, 1237 West Third Street, on the evening of November 3rd.

Collection of dues was then in order, and the following amounts collected: E. W. Ellis, W. Andrews, Lorin Wright, C. W. Olinger, R. Wright, Joseph Boyd, W. Wright, G. J. Gilbert, Irwin G. Koogle, and W. E. Landis, each $1.00.

The club then proceeded to the election of officers, to take their seats at the next, regular, meeting which resulted as follows:

There being no further business to transact the club adjourned, to meet at the residence of Frank Gilbert on the evening of November 3rd.

The Banquet.

The third annual banquet was held Saturday evening, November 3, 1888, at the residence of Frank J. Gilbert, 1237 West Third Street. All the members were present except Lorin Wright but his being absent did not necessitate his being forgotten. Each one of you recall the bland remark of I.G. Koogle, "Telegraph to him that we have arrived at cake," and then say to ourselves, "He was forgotten?" Oh, no! Nor will any of us be forgotten at the annual feasts during which we now enjoy ourselves with pleasant thoughts of the many happy times we have had together on a "lark," in the latter part of life our reminiscences will be of a sadder nature, when we contemplate the vacant seats that were once filled by our comrades in joyous youth.

But our happiness did not consist alone of our reminiscences of the past and Mr. Koogle's drollery, but was contributed to largely by the inviting spread that was provided by the committee and the kindness of Mrs. Gilbert, as to the truth of which the following menu will testify.

Everything was gotten up in excellent style, and we must say reflects credit upon the committee that had it in charge. We have now discovered whom to select to provide for the "wants of the inner man" upon these occasions. If you think we didn't fare sumptuously, just inquire of those present.

There is a saying in the Bible something like this: "the last shall be first, and the first last;" so in this case there is a striking similarity (sic). The lady folks at our banquet were not the smallest feature of our enjoyment, although they are spoken of last. As we are young yet (at least we think we are), it is not supposed we will each one buckle down to a single girl, consequently there are a few strange ladies present each year. But be that as it may, the lady friends present this year were very congenial, and contributed largely to the enjoyment of the evening. To each of the ladies present we wish a life of pleasure and prosperity.

At a late hour the members dispersed to their several homes, after tendering a unanimous vote of thanks to Mr. Gilbert for his generous hospitality. Thus ended the third annual banquet of the Annual Club of Ten Dayton Boys.

Errata.
An item unintentionally omitted from the first annual report was the reception given the club by Mr. and Mrs. Charles Olinger Saturday evening, February 12, 1887, in honor of Reuchlin Wright who was soon to leave for Birmingham, Alabama and Joseph Boyd, who was home from Denver, Colorado, and was preparing to leave for that city in a short time. Those present were Charles Olinger, Wilbur Landis, Reuchlin Wright, Irvin Koogle, Will Andrews, Ed. Ellis, Frank Gilbert, Lorin Wright, and Joe Boyd. One absent -- Will Wright. Refreshments were served and the boys left at a late- hour, having enjoyed a splendid evening together, and with best wishes to the host and hostess for the elegant entertainment provided for them.

1889

Dayton Oh., Oct. 12, 1989
The Annual Club of Ten Dayton Boys convened at the residence of W. E. Landis cor. 4th & Hawthorne Sts. Dayton, Ohio at 8 P.M. Order was called by President Andrews. The minutes of the last meeting were read and approved. The report of the treasurer was approved. This showed $6.22 in treasury. A letter from Reuchlin Wright was read. The personal reports of members were then called for and will be found at the end of these minutes. On motion of E. W. Ellis the President appointed a committee of three to consider a new name for our club. The committee was composed of E. W. Ellis, Jos. Boyd and L. Wright.

A motion by Wilbur Wright "That the secretary be instructed to purchase a book to be used for the purpose of keeping a record of the minutes of the club" Carried. On motion of F. J. Gilbert the "President appointed a banquet committee," as follows: W. E. Landis, Lorin Wright, & I. G. Koogle. The committee on change of name reported as follows:

"We recommend that this club shall be known as "The Ten Dayton Boys' Club." of Dayton Ohio. A motion of Mr. Landis "To lay the report on the table until the next regular meeting of the Club," carried.

The banquet committee reported "That the banquet will be held at the residence of W. E. Landis at a time not yet decided upon.

The report was accepted.

The Banquet.

The fourth annual banquet was held at the residence of W. E. Landis Corner of 4th & Hawthorne Strs-Dayton Oh. Thursday evening Oct. 31-1889.

Mr. & Mrs. I. G. Koogle, Mr. & Mrs. E. W. Ellis, Mr. & Mrs. Jos. Boyd, Mr. & Mrs. C. W. Olinger, Mr. & Mrs. W. E. Landis, Will Andrews and Miss Lottie Davidson, Lorin Wright and Miss Nettie Stokes, F. J. Gilbert and Miss Rena Matthewinan (sic), Wilbur Wright and Miss Clara Stokes were present.

Mr. & Mrs. Reuchlin Wright were absent. The evening was spent in a social manner and as the wee sma' (sic) hours drew near, with many expressions of thanks to Mr. & Mrs. Landis for their hospitality the company separated; (sic) Each one voting the occasion a long to be remembered one.

1890

Dayton Ohio.
The regular meeting of the Club was held at the office of Joseph Boyd October 11 - 1890. The Club was called to order by President Andrews.

The following members were present: Wm. Andrews, E. W. Ellis, Wilbur Wright, Lorin Wright, W. E. Landis, Frank Gilbert, Jos Boyd and C. W. Olinger. On motion of Mr. Boyd the meeting was adjourned till October 31st 1890.

The adjourned session was held at Joseph Boyd's office Oct. 31- 1890.All the members were present except Reuchlin Wright of Kansas City, Mo., and L. J. Gilbert of Dayton, Ohio. The meeting came to order on call of President Ellis and personal reports of members were heard. [See reports] The written report of William Andrews being deemed unsatisfactory, he was called upon for a verbal statement. He responded with a speech in which he spoke of his high regard for the club and of its several members and the pleasure he derived from its meetings, would have brought his speech to a close. But the club felt that Mr. Andrews had a confession to make and insisted that he continue. Thereupon amid the cheers and groans of the various members he proceeded to confess that treasonable designs, long cherished in his heart, were advancing to their fulfillment, and that before another year had begun he expected to flop over to the majority, thus leaving the batchelors (sic) in an absolutely hopeless minority. His statement was deemed satisfactory by the majority, and Mr. Andrews was permitted to resume his chair after receiving congratulations and condolences of his fellow members.

The reports of E. W. Ellis, Jos. Boyd, L. Wright, C. W. Olinger, W. E. Landis and Wilbur Wright, also Irwin Koogle, were presented, read and accepted after each member had spoken briefly. The report of Lorin Wright did not seem to come up to the expectations of some of the members, but all attempts to elicit a confession from him failed completely. The events of the year proved that he had nothing to confess.

An interesting letter was rec'd. from Reuchlin Wright of Kansas City, Mo. but it contained no mention of a box which at this stage of the proceedings was brought forward by Lorin Wright and presented to the Club with a statement that it had arrived that day and that he had paid $1.25 charge on it. The box was marked from Kansas City, Mo. by Adams Express, and the Club instantly caught on to the fact that Reuchlin Wright being unable to be present in person had taken this means of reminding them that he was still in the world and that his heart was with them. A hatchet was quickly brought and the box was opened, while the boys gathered around, wondering what he had sent in honor of the occasion. As the lid came off all thrust their heads forward to get the first glimpse; but quicker than sight was the smell that arose from a box full of cabbage-leaves, onions, beet tops and all the foul smelling vegetables that grow in the garden. A few large stones filled the bottom of the box, and added much to the weight and dignity and to the express charges. A look of blank surprise was followed by a shout of laughter, and the boys immediately set about devising a scheme to get even with Reuch.

Andrews interrupted to propose that we refund to Lorin his dollar and a quarter express charges. This, however Lorin stoutly protested against, insisting that he would pay it himself. The work of selecting a suitable present for the sender of the box was resumed and it was proposed that a wagon load of stones be sent to him by express charges unpaid. This was rejected, because, as was pointed out Reuch would be suspecting something and would not take the box from the office.

The regular business of the club was resumed. The report of the committee on the "New Name For the Club", was called for and again read. On motion it was indefinitely laid on the table and the committee was released. Mr. Andrews offered a resolution as follows:

Whereas, Our Club name has not given satisfaction and does not seem suitable nor euphonious,
Therefore, Resolved First:

"That the President appoint a committee to report a suitable name for our club and report same tonight."

The resolution was adopted and the president appointed Wm. Andrews, Chas. Olinger and Wilbur Wright. W. Wright declined and Mr. Boyd was appointed in his place. The committee reported in favor of changing the name to "The Decimo Club." A minority report favored the old name. After remarks by various members the majority report was adopted conditionally. That is, if the proposed name expresses what we want it to, if not, we remain as before. The report of the treasurer was read and approved. Wilbur Landis at this point asked to be excused on account of important business engagements. It is no violation of confidence to state that said business was to carry a squalling baby at home up and down the floor till two o'clock in the morning, in an attempt to induce it to cease from evil and do good.

He was excused and before leaving he committed his political interest in the election about to take place to the successful wire-puller and irreproachable bondsman from Harrison Township.

The election resulted as follows:

W. Olinger was now permitted to leave under the same circumstances as those of Mr. adis. Before leaving he asked that a certain rock pushed from the soil of Missouri might join into his collection. He further said he would write Reuch and thank him for the present. After Olinger had gone the talk about the box was resumed.

It had been noticed that the box had on it the stamp of Weakly Worman and Co. Dayton Ohio, but this did not arouse suspicion till it was found that the manilla (sic) wrapper bore the name of J. W. Coats--Druggist--Third & Broadway, Dayton Ohio on the inner side. Then the zig (sic) was up.

The Wright boys were called upon for a confession, but they insisted that the box was brought to them and that they were unaware of its contents untill (sic) the box was opened. They were silent as to where the box came from but it may now be said that several ladies who regularly enjoy the hospitality of the club at its annual banquets were the sole and only persons who were aware of the entire nature of the joke. Shortly after midnight the club adjourned.

During the evening Mr. E. W. Ellis the founder of the Club presented the Club with a handsome gavel made of ten different kinds of wood to represent the ten members of the club.

The Banquet

On the evening of November 1st 1890 the annual banquet occurred at the residence of Lorin & Wilbur Wright. Those present were Mr. & Mrs. C. W. Olinger, Mr. & Mrs. E. W. Ellis, Mr. & Mrs. W. E. Landis, Mr. & Mrs. Jos. Boyd, Mr. & Mrs. I.G. Koogle, Wrn. Andrews and Miss Lottie Davidson, Lorin Wright and Miss Netta Stokes, F. J. Gilbert and Miss Laura Stephenson, Wilbur Wright and Miss Hattie Davidson. Absent Mr. & Mrs. Reuchlin Wright.

Edgar W. Ellis, founder of The Annual Club of Ten Dayton Boys, made this unique gavel and presented it to the group at its October 11, 1890 meeting. By the insertion of 'plugs' in the head, it contains ten kinds of wood to signify the membership. The gavel is owned by Joseph Boyd's grand daughter, Marianne Myers (Mrs. C. William), of Cincinnati, Ohio.

A feature of the occasion was the eating done by Landis. The time of the banquet had been changed from Friday to Saturday night and he not notified. At the proper time (as he thought) he presented himself ready for business having abstained from both dinner and supper, but as he found no feast spread for him he returned sorrowing. However he was on hand Saturday evening and succeeded. The whole affair was a very pleasant one and everyone went away happy.

The Bellings.
As time passed signs began to multiply that Andrews was about to go and do it, but Andrews was as silent as the grave, on the subject. On several occasions he called on members of the Club and asked them to walk out with him but the expected announcement did not come. Finally the boys learned through others that the wedding would occur and then that it had occurred. The boys were indignant and accordingly paid a visit to the Chief of Police and notified him that the services of his men would not be needed on a certain evening, at which time the boys with bells, horns, and ding-bats informed Mr. Andrews (and his neighbors) that they were there. "Bill" showed up and made a peace offering of cake, oranges, et cetera, whereupon he was forgiven and congratulated.

On a bright morning not long after the members of the Club received each a card which caused them to whistle softly, and stroke their chins. "Going to join the majority." Yours F. J. Gilbert. No previous hints, no confession, no nothing. A meeting was called at once and it was resolved to call on Frank and investigate his case. Lest he should not look for us each one sent him a postal card.

The carrier had no trouble in finding the place for the carrier read on the cards such addresses as these: "Next door to Welch's saloon," "Across the street from Gilbert's coal yard," "Four doors from The Railroad," "One square from Dodds' shop," "Back of Charley Shoemaker's" and "Next door to Harper's." The cards got there and so did the boys ....

They did not stop for an invitation to enter nor did they stop to shake hands. Frank stood aghast while the band played "Annie Laurie" etc. Frank was so glad when we quit that he went out and got cake & fruits to show his appreciation. After a thorough investigation, the majority decided that Gilbert was all right. The two remaining bachelors Lorin & Wilbur Wright have come safely through the year and will start on another in single blessedness. It will probably be some time before the club again goes serenading. But when it does, Oh, won't (sic) there be fun.

W. Wright.
Age 23, still resides with his father at #7 Hawthorne St. Dayton, O. No wife at present. During the year I have been engaged as clerk in the Christian Conservation office. Also as Editor of the "West Side News" a lively but now defunct daffy paper. Am now a member of the firm of Wright & Wright job printers. Office in Hoover Building, 3rd & Williams Sts. Dayton Ohio. (Editor's Note: As bishop and publishing agent for the Church of the United Brethren in Christ (Old Constitution), the boys' father, Milton Wright, was publisher of that groups's Christian Conservator. Wilbur and Orville Wright were associated in printing and publishing West Side News, a weekly newspaper which last appeared April 5, 1890 and The Evening Item, a six-day-a-week daily, from April 30, 1890 until its termination on July 30, 1890. The third location of Wright & Wright, Printers - was the north-west corner of the second floor of the Hoover Block at the south-east comer of Third and Broadway.)

E. W. Ellis Pres.   Wilbur Wright Sec.

1891

Dayton Ohio Oct. 10 1891
The regular meeting of the Club was held in the office of Jos Boyd with President Ed Ellis in the chair. After calling the meeting to order the president called for the minutes -of the last meeting which were read and approved. The report of the treasurer was approved. At this Mr. E W Ellis on retiring from the President's chair made a few appropriate remarks concerning the welfare of the Club, after which Vice-president Jos Boyd took the chair in the absence of President I. G. Koogle.

Wilbur Wright:Age 24, Residence 7 Hawthorn St. Dayton Ohio. Occupation, printer, In business for myself corner of Third and Williams St. Unmarried.

Owing to the briefness of Lorin Wright's report the club demanded a speech in which he was to confess what were his prospects for matrimony. He declined to talk on the subject.

Mr. Will Wright moved that a committee be appointed to consider a new name for the Club, said name to express in some manner the number of persons in the club. Report to be voted on at the next regular meeting of the Club. Carried.

Mr. Andrews moved that Mr. Will Wright be instructed to furnish each member of the Club with a copy of the minutes of this meeting. Carried.

The Banquet

On evening 1891 the annual banquet of the Club was held at the residence of C W Olinger on Galloway St. Dayton Ohio. Those present at the usual flow of wit and feast of good things were, Jos. and Mrs. Boyd, Lorin and Mrs. Wright, W. E. and Mrs. Landis, Wrn and Mrs. Andrews, F. J. and Mrs. Gilbert, C. W. Olinger and family, Wilbur Wright, E. W. & Mrs. Ellis; Those absent were Mr. & Mrs. I. G. Koogle of Austin, Minn. and Mr. & Mrs. Reuch Wright of Kansas City, Mo.

1892

The regular meeting of the club was held on the second Saturday night in October 1892.

The minutes of this meeting were mislaid or lost by the secretary, Joseph Boyd, and never found.

The banquet this year was held at the home of Mr. Boyd. (this is error, the next was at Boyd's)

1893

October 14th 1893
The eighth annual meeting of the Annual Club of Ten Dayton Boys was held at the residence of Jos. Boyd Corner of Third and Broadway, October 14 - 1893.

W. Wright
Soon after our last meeting I was taken very ill and was confined to the house for nearly a month. At length I was well enough to go about again; but a few days before Christmas I had another attack much more severe than the other, from which I did not recover for nearly two months.

Indeed I am not sure that I am entirely rid of it yet. About the beginning of April I embarked in the bicycle business and though times have been very hard and prices very unsteady, I have escaped bankruptcy. I spent a few days in August attending bicycle races at Columbus and Springfield, and in September spent a month at the "Columbian Exposition". The rest of the year has been spent at home.

I am a year older than I was at the last meeting making my age 26 years. There is so little prospect of an increase in my family that the fox horns trombones, ding-bats, etc. which the Club formerly kept for cases of emergency are rusted and covered with dust. Their voice has not been heard since the night of the Horace Street cyclone two years ago. I reside at #7 Hawthorne St. as before.

Lorin Wright
Age 30. Residence, Horace Street, Dayton Ohio. Married and have one child, a boy. Occupation Job Printer, Cor. Third and Williams Sts. Dayton Ohio. Nothing of serious importance has happened during the year past and I am firmly settled down to married life and have no cause to regret that I joined the majority.

The Banquet

On Thursday evening Dec. 7 - 93 the annual banquet of the Club was held at the residence of Jos. Boyd in Dayton Ohio.

The banquet was a splendid affair and reflected great credit on the Committee, and especially upon Mr. and Mrs. Boyd.

Those regularly assigned to respond to toasts were:

E. W. Ellis:
"Our Club, It's (sic) Past, Present, and Future."
Frank J. Gilbert:
"Some Faces I Have Seen Through A Camera"
William Andrews:
"Our Ladies".

Besides these, several impromptu addresses were made adding a new and pleasant feature to our banquets.

President Olinger acted as toast-master. The absent ones were often and tenderly spoken of and all wished for a time when we can all be together again. At a late hour we separated.

The banquet committee was composed of Joseph Boyd, William Andrews and Lorin Wright. The place fixed at Mr. Boyds. The secretary was authorized to purchase postal cards necessary for use in notifications and so forth.

A motion by Wilbur Wright, "that not over $5.00 be taken from the Club Treasury to defray banquet expenses, the remainder to be assessed on the members present," Carried.

A called meeting to consider some amendments to the constitution was recommended and may occur. Some very interesting and enjoyable speeches were made by the members present in which the absent ones were often and fraternally referred to. A Motion to adjourn carried.

1894

Dayton Oh., Oct 6/94
The A.C.T D B (sic) met in regular annual session with President 0 W Olinger in the Chair.

The Treasurer reported a balance of three and one half dollars ($3.50) in the treasury. An assessment of fifteen cents per member was levied to defray extra expenses of last banquet. This levy was made only on those present at said banquet.

The customary good time followed and for hours we talked of past, present and future in the same old fashioned way, so pleasant to us all. The absent ones were not forgotten, but were often, very often mentioned in connection with various things and incidents of which we talked.

Lorin Wright:
Age 31. Residence 117 Horace St. Occupation Printer, Cor. 3rd & Williams St. Family consists of wife and one boy who is smarter than his "daddy."

1895

Wednesday Oct. 16, 1895
"The Annual Club of Ten Dayton Boys" met in its tenth session with President Lorin Wright in the chair at residence of E W Ellis. The minutes of the preceding (sic) meeting were read and approved.

Lorin Wright
Since my last report I have made some changes in my business relations. On January 1st 1895 1 retired from the firm of Wright & Wright and on March 11th I entered the employ of the "John Rouzer Co" as bookkeeper, which position I still hold. I am 32 years old. Reside at 117 Horace St, with my wife and one boy.

Wilbur Wright
Age 28. Residence 7 Hawthorne St. Unmarried. Occupation, Job Printer and dealer in Bicycles.

On motion of Mr Andrews a committee was appointed to purchase and send to Reuchlin Wright and family some token of our esteem for them. Committee: Wrn Andrews, E W Ellis, I G Koogle.

The Banquet

On Friday evening Nov 8th 1895 the annual banquet of the club was held at the residence of Wrn Andrews and wife on Home Ave. Dayton.

The Divine blessing was asked by C W Olinger after which followed that part of the programme (sic) into which no initiation is necessary. While the company was seated at the banquet table a flash-light picture was made by Mr. F J Gilbert.

The banquet reflects great credit upon Mr & Mrs Andrews and L. Wright and I G Koogle of the banquet committee.

Another year has passed. It has had its sunshine and its shadows.

Let us hope that out of it all we have risen to higher better living and to closer friendship with each other.

1896

October 10 1896
The "Annual Club of Ten Dayton Boys" met in its eleventh regular session at the residence of E W Ellis in Dayton Ohio. The treasurer reported as follows for past year,

Received from W. E. Landis former Treas.	14.55
of it members dues	10.00
Total	$24.55
Disbursements.
Present for Bro Reuch. Wright family	6.50
Banquet 1895	10.75
1896 Part Payment	5.00
Total	$22.25
Balance on hand	$2.30

The Banquet

The Annual Banquet of the Club was held at the residence of Irvin Koogle and family 133 South Hawthorn St Dayton Oh. Sept. 1896.

The usual good time prevailed during the evening and the banquet reflected great credit on Mr & Mrs Koogle.

Wilbur Wright: Residence 7 Hawthorne St. Dayton Oh.,.Occupation, Dealer in and manufacturer of Bicycles. Age 29. Unmarried.

The Club formally adjourned to spend the evening in social session.

1897

Saturday October 9 1897
Twelfth annual meeting of the Club was called to order by the president F J Gilbert.

A motion was made that the Treas. cast the ballots of all members present for Wilbur Wright for president for the ensuing year. Carried.

Letters are in the hands of the Secretary, from R. Wright and I G Koogle which are read and appreciated.

Wilbur Wright:
Residence - 7 Hawthorne St. - Dayton Oh
Age 30 years
Occupation: Bicycle Mfg. Dayton Oh
Family: Bachelor (sic)

The Banquet

President Wilbur Wright acted as toastmaster in the happy and good humored manner for which he has a reputation in the Club. Wilbur E. Landis made the speech of the evening in response to the toast "What are we here for", in such a masterly manner that he even surprised his friends. A number of impromptu speeches were made and Mrs. Lottie Andrews favored us with a reading. Misses Grace Faust and Bessie Ellis assisted materially in making a success of the banquet.

It had reached December 1st, the party broke up wishing to each other and to those absent a happy future.

1898

Thirteenth annual meeting of the Club was called to order by the President, Wilbur Wright. Members present were Wilbur Wright, Lorin Wright, W E Landis, Wm Andrews, Jos. Boyd, C W Olinger, F J Gilbert & E W Ellis. Absent, Reuch Wright & I G Koogle.

No personal report was received from Irwin G. Koogle, but instead of it came a letter from him asking that he be dropped from the Club. The request seemed to be such a strange one that a motion "to grant his request" was laid on the table until the president should call a meeting to act upon it. The matter of a banquet was left to the Executive Committee On motion the Club adjourned to meet on call of President.

November 19 - 1898
On Saturday evening November 19, 1898 the Club met on call of President Andrews at the residence of E. W. Ellis 337 Fourth Ave. Dayton. Joseph Boyd and E. W. Ellis reported having written to I G Koogle to ascertain if possible why he desires to leave the Club. Both of these letters having been ignored, a vote was taken on the motion to grant his request all members present voting aye. The secretary was instructed to notify Mr. Koogle of our action in the matter. A banquet committee was appointed as follows Lorin Wright, W. Landis and F. J. Gilbert. The time and place of holding the banquet was not decided, but was left in the hands of the Executive Committee as before. The members present at the called meeting were L. Wright, W. Wright, Joe Boyd, Andrews, Gilbert & Ellis.

The Banquet

On Saturday evening December 3rd 1898 the annual banquet of the Club was held at the residence of Mr and Mrs. W. E. Landis 206 Home Ave., Dayton Ohio.

The members present were President and Mrs. Andrews, Mr & Mrs W E Landis, Mr & Mrs F J Gilbert, Mr & Mrs Joseph Boyd, Mr. & Mrs. C. W. Olinger, Mr & Mrs Lorin Wright, Mr Wilbur Wright and Miss Katie Wright, Mr & Mrs. E W Ellis. All members were present except Reuchlin Wright and his wife.

At 9-30 P.M. the company surrounded the table in Mr. Landis' dining room. The table we tastefully and richly decorated with ferns~ and crysanthernums (sic). After the divine blessing had been asked by Frank J. Gilbert the following dinner was served in courses.

The following were the regular toasts given.

"The Jewels of the Club" Mrs Boyd
"Why I am a member" Mr. Ellis
"From a minority standpoint" Mr. Wilbur Wright

Impromptu speeches were made by several gentlemen and ladies and Miss Katie Wright told some amusing stories of College days. After a vote of thanks to Mr and Mrs Landis and a very pleasant evening, all joined in singing "God be with you till we meet again" and adjourned.

1899

Saturday, October 14 - 1899
The Fourteenth annual meeting of the Club was called to order by President Andrews at the residence of C. W. Olinger, number 42 Galloway St, Dayton Ohio

Members present Wm. Andrews, Jos. Boyd, F. J. Gilbert, Lorin Wright, Wilbur Wright, C. W. Olinger & E. W. Ellis.

Wilbur Wright: Age 32 - Residence 7 Hawthorn St Dayton Oh.. Occupation Manufacturer & dealer in bicycles. Family none.

The Banquet

On Thursday evening November 16, 1899 the regular banquet of the Club was had at the residence of Frank J Gilbert Comer of Monument Ave & Summit St, Dayton Ohio: The members present were: Mr & Mrs Joseph Boyd - Mr & Mrs Lorin Wright, Mr & Mrs Wilbur E Landis - Mr & Mrs Charles W Olinger, Mr & Mrs William Andrews - Mr & Mrs Frank J Gilbert, Mr & Mrs Edgar W Ellis. - Absent were Mr & Mrs Reuchlin Wright and Mr. Wilbur Wright. By 8-30 P.M. the guests had all arrived and at 9 o'clock surrounded the banquet table. The Divine blessing was invoked by W E Landis, after which the following good things were served:

After full justice had been done to the banquet the little company of old friends returned to the parlor where a very pleasant and profitable evening was spent in song and conversation. It was long after mid-night when the company sang "God be with you till we meet again", and separated.

1900

October 12, 1900
The fifteenth annual meeting of the Club was held in the office of Wright & Wright, West Third Street, Dayton Ohio.

A motion was made that the report of Treasurer Wilbur Wright be deferred until another meeting be called by the secretary. Treasurer Wright being in North Carolina. Carried.

A committee was sent out to buy a lunch at this time (10:30) and returned bringing all they could carry.

A very filling time ensued.

As usual on such occasions the only thing that caused and (sic) adjournment was the nearness of Sunday morning. October 12, 1900

The Banquet.

The fourteenth annual banquet of the Club was held at the residence of Wilbur Wright No. 7 Hawthorne St. -- Dayton Ohio, December 27" 190O.

All members being present: Mr & Mrs Reuchlin Wright, Mr & Mrs Jos. Boyd, Mr & Mrs William Andrews, Mr & Mrs W. E. Landis, Mr & Mrs C. W. Olinger, Mr & Mrs F. J. Gilbert, Mr & Mrs Lorin Wright, Mr & Mrs E. W. Ellis, Mr. Wilbur Wright & Miss Katharine Wright surrounded tables in the dining room where a splendid banquet awaited them. This affair was more than ordinarily interesting and enjoyable because of all members being present. This was the first time that a full attendance was had at a banquet. Also the first time since 1888 that Reuchlin Wright and wife have been with us at all.

Some flash-light pictures of the Club and of the ladies were taken, which were an entertainment in themselves.

After a most thoroughly pleasant and profitable night we separated.

The Called Meeting. On Thursday evening January 3rd 1901 all the members of the club except C. W. Olinger, met in a special meeting at The office of Wright Cycle Co. on West Third Street.

This meeting needs no description. The standing committee on lunch (Andrews & Ellis) were sent out, and after quite a foraging expedition returned with some things to eat, and the usual jug of cider was not omitted. Boyd went home after spoons, & Will Wright went after spoons. Both returned with spoons.

Boyd also brought peaches, oranges, cake and other things.

All the mysteries of the Club were gone through except 91st degree which we could not rehearse on account of one member not being entitled to it. This is only conferred on married members. When our bachelor member ties up we will give it to him.

We adjourned when we had to.

1901

Dayton. Oh. October 12 - 1901
The sixteenth annual meeting of the "Annual Club of Ten Dayton Boys" was called to order by the President Wilbur E. Landis. The minutes of the last meeting were read and approved; Not however without some signs of regret when the name of Reuchlin Wright was read among those present at the banquet, and not with us now.

The meeting this evening was held in the banquet room of Hope Lodge, Knights of Pythias, on Third Street, Dayton Ohio.

1902

October 11, 1902
The seventeenth annual meeting of "The Annual Club of Ten Dayton Boys" was called to order by the President, William Andrews in the dining room of Hope Lodge, Knights of Pythias, on West Third Street, Dayton, Ohio. The minutes of the last meeting were read and approved.

After the regular business was disposed of the usual lunch was indulged in.

This was as much of a success as could be. But woe, poor Andrews, his lunch solid and liquid in one stubborn and uncontrollable mass came up. Yes rose like a flowering fountain and Billy stood on the bridge at midnight and his life was full of care, and burden was laid upon him, far greater than he could bear. (Apologies W. Longfellow).

Wilbur Wright. Age 35 -- Residence 7 Hawthorne St, Dayton Oh.,.Occupation, bicycle manufacturer. Family, none.

It will be observed that several small changes have occurred in a year and some not so small.

A year ago Reuchlin Wright was unemployed and lived in Kansas City Mo. Now he is a farmer near Tonganoxie Kas.

Wm. Andrews and W. E. Landis last year lived on Home Ave. Now although they are on the same street as before, it is Norwood Ave. Andrews lives in the same house and is employed the same as a year ago.

Landis has moved one square west of his former home. He has also been promoted in a business way, being assistant foreman of his department. He is still a member of the Board of Education of the City.

Lorin Wright has moved from Miami City to Plant St. in Riverdale; may his plants flourish while Wilbur Wright still professes to live at 7 Hawthorne St., his recent aerial flights give us room to wonder whether he is not soon to take up his abode with the angels.

C. W. Olinger has moved to Harrison Township and while he is not a farmer he is close to those who are. Joseph Boyd, F. J. Gilbert and E. W. Ellis have not moved. We are still at the same places as one year ago. The Banquet

The annual banquet of the club was held July 23rd 1903 at the residence of E W Ellis 337 Fourth Avenue, Dayton Ohio.

Those present were Joseph Boyd, Win Andrews, Lorin Wright, W E Landis, E W Ellis with their wives and Wilbur Wright who came as usual without his wife. A very enjoyable and pleasant time as usual was had. C W Olinger, F J Gilbert & Reuchlin Wright with their wives were absent.

1903

Dayton Ohio October 10 - 1903
The Annual Club of Ten Dayton Boys met in regular session for the 18th time.

The meeting was held at the residence of Charles W Olinger in Harrison Township just north of Dayton, Ohio.

In an unguarded moment some one, Joseph Boyd, I believe, sprung upon us the old question of a new name for the club. This old and much discussed question will be for discussion at the next regular convention of the club in October 1904, when a special committee composed of Lorin Wright, C. W. Olinger, and William Andrews will report suggestions as to a new name. This committee was appointed by the chairman on motion of Lorin Wright. A banquet committee composed of Andrews and Landis will look after time, place and provender for our next feed.

The regular business of the club being not very heavy nor cumbersome, we soon drifted into one of the old-time sessions, including the usual stag supper, cider and all. We were very sorry to again be compelled to note the absence of two of our members, one of whom is trying to be happy and get rich in the state of Kansas as, while the other is trying to fly in a state of Great Uncertainty. We are more than sorry to have our meetings without all of our members. But since we can not help it, we often refer to those absent. We heartily wish to Reuch Wright and family, prosperity, health and happiness. We are waiting to hear of him in congress from the state of the yellow corn. As to the absent Will Wright he seems bound to be only a little lower than the Angels, and who knows but some morning these Angels, looking over the battlements of Heaven may see our beloved member coming. They would not be surprised; they have already seen Elijah coming in a chariot of fire, and one or two others who came without any conveyance. Do you notice my familiarity with the Scriptures? At midnight with a glorious moon shining over us we departed and our doings became history.

Wilbur Wright, Age 36 -- 7 Hawthorne St. Dayton Oh.,.occupation, Bicycle Manufacturer. Family, To get.

Some changes may be observed.
Andrews and Ellis while still in politics have changed positions somewhat.

Andrews from clerkship in Civil Engineer's office to Assistant City Clerk at a good increase in salary. Ellis from special accountant with the old Board of City Affairs, to assistant City Auditor. Lorin Wright has quit book-keeping for other people and is contracting street sprinkling for himself. I hope the members will pardon a bubbling over of the feelings of your secretary, but in writing these minutes I glanced at the minutes of our first meeting at the home of Reuchlin Wright 1533 West Second Street, Dayton Ohio, on the evening of October 9, 1886; Seventeen years ago; then our oldest member was only 34 years old--now our youngest is 36. The Ruler of the Universe has been good to us, and none have died. I am inclined to look on the bright side of things in general, but at the best, some of us will not be here a great many years, and it seems to me that the very fact that we are yearly nearing a separation after all these years of unbroken ties, binds us closer together. May God prosper us and make us useful in life and re-unite us in Heaven.

1904

Dayton Oh.,.October 8, 1904
The Annual Club of Ten Dayton Boys met in regular session for the nineteenth time, with the president, Mr. Frank J Gilbert in the chair.

The committee appointed one year ago to suggest a new name for the club was continued for another year.

Following the regular routine work of the Club, came the usual stag lunch or banquet. The standing committee on lunch, Andrews and Ellis were sent out to gather in such edibles as could be obtained.

1905

Dayton Oh.,.October 14, 1905
The "Annual Club of Ten Dayton Boys" met in regular session for the twentieth time with the president, Wilbur Wright in the chair.

The committee on a new name for the club was continued.

Wilbur Wright, 7 Hawthorn St, Dayton. Age 38. Occupation, Bicycle Manufacturer and Aereonaut (sic). Family, none.

After the reports of members were in, the usual lunch was indulged in. This did not differ from former efforts in this direction, and it was noticeable that in all the years that have fled, none of the boys have lost their appetites. Many pleasant reminiscences were indulged in and it seemed harder than ever before to break up our meeting and go home. But the best of friends must part; and we did, at midnight.

1906

October 11 - 1906
The Club met in regular session for the twenty-first time.

Lorin Wright, 1243 W. Second St. Dayton Oh.,.Age 43, occupation, contractor. Family, wife, two sons two daughters.

Wilbur Wright, 7 Hawthorn St. Dayton Oh.,.Age 39. Occupation, bicycle manufacturer and aereonaut (sic). Family, none.

1907

Dayton Oh.,.Oct. 12 - 1907
The Annual Club of Ten Dayton Boys met in regular session for the twenty-second time with President Wm. Andrews in the chair. The meeting was held in the office of the City Auditor in Dayton Ohio.

A very pleasant evening was spent in the old fashioned way, but the absence of three of our number tinged the pleasures with sadness. A banquet committee was appointed as usual, but no time nor place was chosen. It seems that as the years go by and families increase, the holding of banquets at the houses of members is not as convenient as in former years.

The Club has been content with stag affairs for several years past, but it is the intention to hold a regular banquet for the ladies of the club before the next regular meeting at some suitable time and place. With one member in Kansas, another in Michigan, and another in foreign lands, making name and fame for himself, we are positively lonesome. But The Ruler of the Universe has dealt kindly with us, and as yet no inroads have been made on the club by death.

Wilbur Wright, Aeronaut, Dayton, Ohio. Age, 40 -- family none.

1908

Dayton Ohio October 10 - 1908
The Annual Club of Ten Dayton Boys met in regular session in the office of the City Auditor in Dayton Ohio, with the President Joseph Boyd in the Chair.

The expenses of the lunch tonight were 2.05 (sic). The old banquet committee was continued with a positive promise of a banquet when our absent ones return, or at least a part of them. The meeting was a pleasant one but tinged with regrets. A year ago no one thought that Gilbert would ever leave us. Now he is in New York. Landis has moved from Detroit Michigan to Springfield Ohio. Wilbur Wright has brought to us a degree of fame such as has never been brought to a similar organization in the history of the world.

We are justly proud of our fellow-member and his brother who is also our friend. Our club has been the subject of a great deal of comment since the success of the Wright brothers is assured. There can be no doubt but that this organization of ours is becoming more dear to each of us as the years go by. We eagerly look forward to the time of meetings, and read with great pleasure the letters from those who can not be with us.

Wilbur Wright, Aeronaut, Dayton Oh.,.Age 41. No wife, no children.

1909

The Banquet.

On Wednesday evening June 16 1909, the banquet for dinner of the club was held at the residence of E. W. Ellis, 59 Oxford Avenue, Dayton Ohio. All the members were present. Wm. Andrews, C. W. Olinger, W. E. Landis, Lorin Wright and E. W. Ellis had their wives with them. Reuchlin Wright and Frank Gilbert were alone. Mrs. Joseph Boyd was too ill to attend and her dinner was sent to her. Wilbur Wright, as usual, had no wife. This dinner which was served by The Shoup Catering Co., was a success in every way.

To add to the pleasure of the occasion, it was in a way the opening entertainment of the "Wright Home Celebration." On the two days following the City of Dayton, The State of Ohio, and The United States of America celebrated the home-coming of our fellow member Wilbur Wright and his brother Orville after their great victories in the air. The affair on this banquet occasion was especially enjoyable, and pleasant because it was the first time since December 27 -- 1900 that all of the members had been together. It was an old time of good-fellowship and reminiscence. On the following day the club went in a body to the gallery of W. T. Swartzbaugh and had a group and individual pictures made. The plates were taken by F. J. Gilbert, to New York and pictures completed by him.

Dayton Ohio October 9 - 1909
The twenty-fourth meeting of The Annual Club of Ten Dayton Boys was called to order by the secretary, E W Ellis.

Lorin Wright was chosen acting president.

The treasurer reported as follows:

The regular lunch was served as usual. Only five members being present we were forcibly reminded of the fact that we are not always to be close together in person, even though we are together in spirit.

We received from Gilbert the pictures taken on June 17 1909 and also a fine individual picture of each one of us. The pictures are fine, and reflect credit on our fellow member who made them. It was hard for us to separate. The ties grow stronger each year, and we seem to grow closer as we grow older.

It seemed that the principal theme of the evening was, our meeting in June when we were all together. Letters were received from Reuchlin Wright, F. J. Gilbert, W. E. Landis.

Wilbur Wright was not heard from, by letter, but if we were as busy as he is we would probably not write either.

We will hear from him later on.

Lorin Wright local business manager for Wright Brothers, Aeroplanists (sic). Age, 46, residence West Second St. Dayton Ohio. Family, wife, two sons, & two daughters.

Wilbur Wright, Aeroplanist (sic), Age 42, residence, 7 Hawthorn St. Dayton Ohio. Family, none.

1910

October 8, 1910
The twenty-fifth annual meeting of the Club was called to order by the president Mr. Wilbur Wright at 8 P.M. in the social rooms of Hope Lodge K. of P. 1126 W. Third St. Dayton Ohio.

Andrews and Ellis procured the stuff for a lunch and with the help of the stove, tables and dishes in the rooms where we met, we had a very acceptable feed.

The evening was spent in the usual manner and as usual it was near . midnight when we adjourned.

Of course we missed our absent ones, as we do every year.

The reports of members show some changes other than ages this year. Gilbert has come back from New York. Olinger has a new grand-daughter. Landis is with another company, and Andrews & Ellis are out of politics.

Lorin Wright: Age 47. Private Sec'y Wright Bros. resides 1243 West Second St., Dayton, family, wife, two sons, two daughters.

To those who are present at the meetings no report is necessary, and to those who are not present, it is impossible to give a correct report. However all of us have been to enough meetings to fully realize the good fellowship that flows freely when this bunch gets together with the door shut. Some time when the secretary gets time he can gather from the various minutes of the past twenty-four years some interesting reading for all of us. One thing he has just now noticed for the first time himself, viz: that only two of the club members have never missed a regular meeting of the club. They are your president and secretary. Andrews and Ellis.

Special Meeting.
On Saturday evening, August 26, 1911, a called meeting of the club was held in Wright Brothers' office, on Third Street, Dayton. The call was occasioned by a visit from Reuchlin Wright.

All members were present.

The usual lunch and informal good time kept us until midnight.

1911

Dayton Oh.,.Oct. 14 - 1911
The 26th annual meeting was called to order by the president William Andrews, at the home of W E Ellis, 59 Oxford Ave. Dayton.

The treasurer's report is as follows:

Wilbur Wright, Age 44, April 16, 1911, President "The Wright Co." residence 7 Hawthorn St. Dayton. No family.

Only five members being present and no letters being at hand from the absentees, we felt lonesome.

This was in measure tempered however, by the remembrance that we were all together in August. When we hear from those absent, the letters, as usual, will be "passed around".

Adjourned at midnight.

1912

Dayton Oh. Oct. 12 - 1912
The twenty-seventh annual meeting of the Club was called to order by the President, C W Olinger.

The meeting was held in the club rooms of Hope Lodge, K of P.

The treasurer reported as follows:

Wilbur Wright: Age 45 Dead. May 30/12

We met around the festal board
As in the days of yore.
Yet bound in grief with one accord,
And hardly dared to say the word
That Wilbur is no more.
A quarter century, aye more
Have dwelt in peace the nine;
No icy hand of death before,
No cruel sting to wound us sore,
Or cause us to repine.
We dwelt in peace, aye, felt secure,
No thought of death occurred;
This great bereavement to endure
This sorrow naught on earth can cure,
Our very souls has stirred.
And now when e'er we meet again,
However happy we
A fearsome thought will shroud us then,
And we shall troubling, wonder when
And whom the next will be.

E W Ellis    F. J. Gilbert
Sec'y.    Pres.

Somewhere and sometime in the great unknown future, we may be able to understand the heart-rendering sorrows that are to us now inexplicable. The youngest member of our club is gone. The silent laugh, the witty sayings, the desirable company of Wilbur Wright shall be for us no more in this world. To repeat the countless words of praise that have been his from every civilized nation, would be vain. What he has been to the world, is well known. What he has been to us, no one else can ever know. It is enough to say that our hearts are bowed down.

Therefore resolved, that we extend to the bereaved family our sincere sympathy, and the assurance that none outside of themselves can feel the loss more than we do.

Charles W. Olinger
Joseph Boyd
Frank J. Gilbert
W. E. Landis
William Andrews
E. W. Ellis.

The above resolutions were adopted and signed at a called meeting on May thirty-first, nineteen hundred and twelve, and are hereby made a part of the 1912 minutes.

1913

October 11, 1913
The club met in regular session for the twenty-eighth time, at the residence of Lorin Wright, corner of Grand and Grafton Avenues, Dayton Ohio.

The treasurer reported as follows:

During the evening Boyd was compelled to leave on account of the serious illness of his wife.

A great many changes have come during the year. The flood in March caused very great loss to Andrews and Boyd suffered a great deal of inconvenience by reason of having an invalid wife and a cellar full of water. All of us who were in Dayton had trouble to get enough food.

Aside from the experiences of the Dayton members during the flood, there has been nothing of an extraordinary character that has come into our lives, at least none that we care to note. Some sad misfortunes must reach us now and then but God is great and merciful and we are able by his help to meet our trials with a firmness that will prevent us from being a burden to others.

Letters were received and read, from Reuchlin Wright and W. E. Landis.

Reuchlin Wright becomes for the present a retired farmer. His family is fairly well and during the summer he and his wife enjoyed a long vacation along the shores of Lake Michigan.

W. E. Landis is at present in Detroit but has not removed his family from Columbus, O. His youngest son was run over by an automobile during the past few months, but true to the Landis grit and contrariness, refused to have any bones broken, and recovered nicely.

C. W. Olinger's oldest son, who has been in Canada for several years, is doing well and owns a good farm, which speaks well for the Olinger stock.

We should be better informed as to the whereabouts and successes of the children of our members.

Lorin Wright has purchased and moved into an elegant home at the comer of Grand and Grafton Avenues in Dayton. At his request this meeting of the Club was held at his home.

Lorin Wright Private Secretary, Age 50, Residence, Grand & Grafton Avenues, Dayton.

On the morning following the club meeting the beloved wife of Joseph Boyd, died.

The following resolutions were adopted by the club, October 19-1913.

Whereas,
Death has again entered the house of our fellow-member Joseph Boyd, and has taken the patient and long-suffering wife and mother: Just as the morning sun of God's Holy Day was pouring it's (sic) first rays into her room, her spirit crossed the dark river of death, leaving all that was earthly in the sullen stream, and took up it's (sic) abode beyond the stars. Therefore, be it resolved by The Annual Club of Ten Dayton Boys, That we extend to our friend and his two sons, our sympathy which cannot be expressed in words, and commend them to Him who alone is able to heal the wounded spirit.

That a copy of this resolution be sent to Joseph Boyd, and that it be made a part of the official records of the Club.

Lorin Wright    E. W. Ellis
President    Secretary

Editor's Note: while the date of the death of the wife of Frank J Gilbert is not shown the following resolution is part of the October 19, 1913 minutes:

Whereas, the home of our fellow-member, Frank J. Gilbert has been invaded by death, and the wife and mother taken, therefore be it Resolved,

That "The Club of Ten Dayton Boys" extend to our friend and his daughters our sympathy and love, and assure them that we stand ready at all times to say or to do anything that will take away a part of the sting of their bereavement. That we fully realize the richness of the christian (sic) character of Mrs. Laura Gilbert and that not only her family, and we shall feel the loss but the entire community in which she lived.

That a copy of these resolutions be sent to Frank J. Gilbert, and that they be entered upon the records of "The Club."

Lorin Wright    E. W. Ellis
President    Sec'y

1914

Dayton Oh.,. Oct. 10 - 1914
The twenty-ninth meeting of The Annual Club of Ten Dayton Boys, was held at the home of E W Ellis, 59 Oxford Avenue, Dayton, Ohio.

The treasurer's report as follows, was approved.

The usual lunch followed the reports of members, and the meeting adjourned at the usual hour of midnight.

We were reminded once more that we are reaching a time when we will be a much smaller company, by the untimely deaths of Mrs. Boyd and Mrs. Gilbert, both of which occurred since our last meeting.

1915

Dayton, Ohio, October 16 - 1915
The meeting should have been held one week earlier, but on account of the absence (sic) secretary at the proper time to notify members, and his forgetfulness on his return, the meeting was called for this date.

A letter from Landis was read at the meeting, but no word was had from Reuchlin Wright, presumably on account of the fact that he has been in the far west and did not get his notice in time to write us. His letter will no doubt come later and be passed around among the other members for their pleasure, as it is a pleasure for any of us to read from the pens and hearts of those who are absent.

Lorin Wright. Age 52. Residence, Grafton & Grand Aves. Dayton Ohio. Occupation, temporarily retired. Family, wife, two sons & two daughters.

Since the first part of this report was written, a letter has been received from Reuchlin Wright, and has been read by the resident members of the club. But few changes have taken place in the occupations of the members during the year, Boyd, Gilbert, Landis, Olinger and Reuchlin Wright making no changes, while Lorin Wright has just gone out of his former business by reason of the sale of The Wright Company, to eastern capitalists.

At the meeting of the club, the "Saturday Lunch" was indulged in and as usual, we found it hard to separate.

1916

Dayton Oh.,.Oct. 14, 1916
The Annual Club of Ten Dayton Boys met in it's (sic) thirty-first regular session with President C W Olinger in the chair.

Letters were received from Landis & Reuch Wright and read with the usual interest. Reuch Wright said in his letter that he expected to