Original 1845 letter of thanks from the Western Star IOOF Lodge No. 24 of Pittsburgh
to the Mount Zion IOOF Lodge No. 74 of York PA, for their generous donation of $50
for the sufferers of the Great Fire of Pittsburgh which occurred on April 10, 1845.
Letter is dated May 19, 1845.
We were able to locate a blurb from a Pittsburgh newspaper concerning the donation (see image).
Materials and images used in research are for review only, and NOT included with the item for sale in this listing.
Also, one of the names at the bottom of the letter is William McCague.  His obit and a web photo can
be reviewed below with scans of the letter, which has been transcribed.
Pittsburgh, May 19th 1845
To the ?NG V.G.? Officers and Brothers of Mount Zion Lodge No. 74 IOOF York, Pa.
Gentlemen + Brothers,
Your letter of the 10th last informing us that you had remitted your donation of Fifty Dollars to the Grand Lodge of Penna was received by us on the 16th last.  In the name of our unfortunate Brethren we return you our heartfelt thanks and gratitude for your very liberal gift, should all the lodges "go and do likewise" we shall reestablish our sufferers in business in as good a condition as they were in previous to the fire.  This result must redound to the credit of our order which must be benefitted immemsely.  Even in this place, a very hot bed of antimasonry, we have begun to feel a reaction in our favor already.  Four new members were received and seven applications for membership in our Lodge, "Western Star" No. 24", last lodge night.  We have the honor to subscribe ourselves,  Yours sincerely in the Bonds of F.L.Z.L.??
Wm. McCague, D.D. Gille, Wm. Grant
(Com. of Correspondence)