Russell Nix *
Illustrious Sir Russell Nix
Potentate - 1941
The Western Hemisphere was the only part of the globe as yet unmarred by World War II when Noble Russell W. Nix was installed as Potentate of Arabia Temple in 1941. Arabia’s ladies, however, met every week in the Mosque to knit and sew for the American Red Cross in support of our allies in Great Britain. The Temple was cooperating with The American Committee for Defense of British homes by collecting all kinds of guns, ammunition, field glasses, steel helmets, and stop watches. Many of Arabia’s reserve officers were called up for active duty in the States.
Following approval of plans and contracts, the Mosque was completely remodeled in 1941. The business office, ballroom, ladies parlor, dining room, and club rooms were all renovated. With the installation of a new automatic elevator, Arabia’s Mosque was now one of the best in the Country. All work was done by Temple contractors and tradesmen. The physical properties of the Temple were in excellent condition and free of debt. There was no decrease in Temple activities. Stated meetings continued with dinner and entertainment. The results of the All-State meetings in San Antonio where the Band and Wrecking Crew won first place trophies; the Patrol and Drum & Bugle Corps got second place awards. Pilgrimages were made to Bay City, Wharton, and Brenham. Imperial Sir George F. Olendorf made his official visit to Arabia Temple in March, and our Potentate and Divan attended the Imperial meetings in June at Indianapolis, Indiana.
The Crippled Children’s Ball broke all existing records with a net in excess of $30,000. The Circus (featuring acts from New York World’s Fair and the first appearance of Clown Happy Kellem, regarded as the greatest clown in the business) resulted in a net income of over $13,000, another record. Twelve thousand patrons were in attendance at the last performance, the greatest ever for one performance.
Two ceremonials resulted in a total of 107 new Nobles and a gain in membership for the year.
A great Christmas Party on December 23, at the Mosque, brought the years’ activities to a close.
