HISTORY

The Knights of Columbus was founded by Father Michael McGivney in 1882 at St. Mary’s Church in New Haven, Connecticut. Father McGivney founded this fraternal organization for the purpose of strengthening religious faith and to provide for the financial needs of burdened families. Our principles are charity, unity, fraternity and patriotism.

Father McGivney served as Supreme Chaplain until he died at the age of 38. Our council #1964 was chartered on August 19, 1919 in West Bend, Wisconsin. Our namesake Father Caspar Rehrl, was a missionary priest who traveled by horseback in the Wisconsin region.

The Council supports many charitable programs to aid the sick, the disabled, needy families and pro-life activities. Donations are gathered through fund raising events such as an annual Tootsie Roll drive for the mentally handicapped, food stands at local grocery stores, a trailer at the West Bend Germanfest in August, and a first Friday monthly fish fry.

Family activities include an annual outdoor mass, a memorial mass for deceased brothers, bimonthly rosary at the Samaritan Home, fifth Sunday communion breakfast, Brotherhood night, bowling tournaments, softball, golf and family camping.

Youth programs include: punt, pass and kick contests, free throw contests, knowledge contests, spelling and math contests, and a Christmas poster contest. We have also sponsored a boy scout troop for over 70 years.

The Knights of Columbus offers low cost insurance for Brother Knights and wives. The Supreme Council self-insures the program and can offer extremely low premiums. Annuities can also be purchased.