An Incomplete History of Cahuilla Lodge # 127

Why Is This History Considered Incomplete?
Putting together a complete history is not only time-consuming, but impossible. Although every month, we are able to add more and more information to this page, it will never reflect everything that happened in the history of our lodge. So, to remind others that while this is a great project, it is one that will never be finished.

Cahuilla Lodge # 127 was formed January 1, 1973 from the merger of Tahquitz Lodge # 127 and Wisumahi Lodge # 478. In 1974, the Lodge absorbed A-tsa Lodge # 380. Finally, on May 1, 2006, the portion of Navajo Lodge in San Bernardino County was welcomed into the family to make the territory of the Lodge as we know it today.

The 1973 merger brought both new opportunities and challenges. Integrating different groups into one large organization took careful planning. The Lodge's organization was formed slowly. During the planning process, which took almost all of 1973, the Lodge used an office of the Lodge Chief; Ken DeWitt and Jon Nelson. Both youth were the outgoing Lodge Chiefs and were responsible for helping lead the group as one.

Despite the issues involved, the groups demonstrated enormous foresight. The use of the name Cahuilla, in commemoration of the loosely constructed tribe of American Indians, was a natural name to latch on to. Also, the use of the rattlesnake totem gave the Lodge one of the most popular totems in the entire country. Throughout the years, Cahuilla Lodge's distinctive pocket flaps are just as recognized as any Lodge short of Unami # 1.

Over the years, the lodge has set an outstanding mark serving the California Inland Empire Council. Not only has there been great leadership that has resulted in two Western Region Chiefs (Mike Sachs and Mike Celano) but also 12 Section Chiefs and 4 Distinguished Service Award recipients (Michael Goldware, Michael Sachs,Michael Celano, and Michael Gollner). Today, Cahuilla Lodge is as strong as ever. The lodge continues to be near the top of the Region's ranks in total service hours, and has won the National Service Award (2001) and the E. Urner Goodman Camping Award 4 times (1983, 1995, 2003, and 2007). Cahuilla Lodge was a Quality Lodge 7 times in the 1990s and every year this decade so far.

So, when you hear the chants and roars of "Snake Power" at every W4B Conclave, there isn't just spirit involved, but the upholding of a deep tradition of successful achievement and service to the Brotherhood of Cheerful Service.

About The Cahuilla Indians

Our namesake, the Cahuilla Indians, were a vast group that occupied a large portion of Southern California. They were experts in basketry and their ingenuity allowed them to live in the hot, arid lands of the desert to the more hospitable climate in the San Jacinto Mountains. We have included a brief history for you to see.

Brief History of the Cahuilla Indians