Princess Yolanda Mutual Aid Society of Pueblo collection

The Società Femminile Di Mutuo Soccorso Della Principessa Iolanda was organized in Pueblo, Colorado on February 20, 1920 by 80 Italian women. The group was founded “in consideration of the moral and material benefits that could be derived by every Italian by joining together to benefit each other.” The members were required to be Italian women of good moral character who knew the Italian language. Potential members between the ages of 18-45 years were presented by an existing member. The application included name, age, city and Province of birth, town of residence, father's name, and name of spouse. A physician’s statement of good health was required along with a $1 application fee. No one with a physical defect, criminal record or residence outside of Pueblo County was admitted. Acceptance was by a secret ballot vote of members, and a $2- $5 admission fee was then assessed based on age at the time of admission.

Once accepted into the group, the Sisters were presented with a book of by-laws and regulations which all were expected to follow. Meetings were held monthly in the afternoon of the fourth Sunday. Attendance was required, and good conduct was expected. Members could be removed from the rolls if they tried to damage the society in any way. Everyone attended all funerals as a group unless excused, or paid a fine of $2. Monthly dues of 50 cents, along with a death assessment of $2.60 were both paid in advance of the death of another member.

Benefits included a $7 flower wreath and death benefit that started at $50, and eventually went to $500 after the lodge became more established. A financial benefit for physical illnesses verified by a physician was also paid. Group social events like dances, picnics, and parties, included family members. The funds for the group were derived from contributions, admission fees, monthly dues and fines, all of which were kept in a bank, administered by the treasurer.

The group was well organized, and administered with proper procedures. All of the minutes and financial reports were written in Italian until 1967. When the next generation became officers they began using English. Officers included Grand President (Past President), President, Vice-President, Recording Secretary, Financial Secretary, and Treasurer. Officers also included Consiglieres (Head Counsellor), and five others to quarterly check financial records; Conduttrici (Conductor), to be present at each meeting and maintain order in the hall, parades, and funerals; Consegnataria (Trustee), custodian of all property belonging to the society including flags and regalia; Porter, who sat at the door and allowed only recognized Sisters to enter. Elections were held yearly and Officers could be re-elected to same office three consecutive times.

It is unclear exactly when the Società Femminile Di Mutuo Soccorso Della Principessa Iolanda was disbanded, but it appears to be some time after 1986. The by-laws stated that the society could not be disbanded as long as there were 10 sisters who wished to keep the society active.