An Elk is Never Forgotten...

The Elks is an organization that is committed to its members and one of the core principals is to quicken the American Spirit. When we think of American Spirit in terms of Sports our mind immediately goes to a game where all you need to play is a ball and stick. We are talking about the American pastime of Baseball and no matter where you go in the United States you’ll find connections to the great game, but the Kenton Elks Lodge #157 has a wonderful history with this timeless sport.

At a recent lodge meeting at the Kenton Elks Lodge #157, Ohio First Vice President Mark Ratliff presented Exalted Ruler Todd Daquino with a framed collection of William “Billy” Southworth memorabilia for which Ratliff has personally collected. Billy was a professional baseball player who started his career in 1911 for the Kenton Reds and went onto becoming the Manager of the St. Louis Cardinals. He won three straight National League championships with Cardinals from 1942 to 1944, including beating the New York Yankees to win the 1942 World Series and the St. Louis Browns in 1944.  Billy was also a dedicated member of the Kenton Lodge and he was awarded an Honorary Life Membership in 1943.

Left: Current Kenton Exalted Ruler Todd Daquino Right: First Vice President Mark Ratliff

The framed collection of items includes a photo of Billy receiving his Life Membership from Past Exalted Ruler Charles R. Price, with Mike Clabaugh standing by his side. Also included is a replica 1943 Cardinals-Yankees World Series badge and a Billy Southworth Playing card.

The collection will be on display in the Kenton Lodge and you should visit our sister lodge in Upper Sandusky #83 and thank Mark for his generous and thoughtful contribution to our Elks Lodge.

Holding Frame: P.E.R. John Hines