Ella Meis
OMAHA, Neb. – When Omahans think of the Tangier Shriners, many picture a circus, tiny cars, and iconic red fezzes. But today, the local fraternal organization is working to show the community that their primary focus is much more than a social club.
The organization’s recognizable look has deep historical roots, dating back over a century before their modern medical mission took center stage.
“The Shrine was formed in 1872 by thirteen Master Masons in New York City,” said Paul Gonzales, past potente for the Tangier Shriners. “In that era, themed parties were quite popular. One of the founding members attended a Middle Eastern-themed party. They thought that could be a pretty good theme for our fraternity.”
For generations, that fraternal theme was the center of their identity. But as times change, members are stepping out of that historical shadow to highlight their year-round charitable work.
“So yeah, we kinda joke around here that being a Shriner is more than our funny hats and little cars, tiny cars,” said Rita Hamele, marketing coordinator for the Tangier Shriners. “What a lot of people don’t know is that Shriners Children’s Hospital is our main philanthropic organization that we donate to. So within Tangier Shrine are Shriners that make up different clubs and units. Those individual clubs and units are fundraising year-round.”
Those year-round fundraising efforts serve as a lifeline for parents facing their darkest days. The money raised fuels the organization’s transport vans, allowing volunteers to drive local children to specialized hospitals in cities like Chicago and Minneapolis completely free of charge.
The official emblem of the Tangier Shriners in Omaha, Neb., features a scimitar, crescent, and star, nodding to the Middle Eastern theme the fraternal organization was founded on in 1872.
To continue funding these medical trips, the Tangier Shriners regularly open their doors to the Omaha community. The organization hosts various public events throughout the year, including a popular Hamburger Night every Wednesday evening, giving locals a way to support the mission firsthand.
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