American Hellenic Educational
Progressive Association
American Hellenic Educational
Progressive Association
Eureka Chapter 52
Chapter History
George Lollos, President of Eureka Chapter #52, Order of Ahepa with a wreath of flowers he designed in honor of Ahepa, c. 1920’s Courtesy of John Lollos
In many ways the story of Eureka mirrors that of the community in the AHEPA Fifth District. In the early 20s Newark was the first, largest and most important center of the newly emerging Greek communities in New Jersey-Delaware. Eureka was the first, largest and most important AHEPA chapter in the Fifth District (then the Seventh).
AHEPA started here in 1924, when Mother Lodge member George Polos came to Newark to expound the principals of the ORDER of AHEPA. He found and convinced Peter Kitsos to form Chapter No. 52 in Dec 1924 with 33 charter members. Peter Kitsos, together with other leaders founded other chapters throughout NJ. Eureka, then, is truly the mother AHEPA chapter of New JErsey, since eight other chapters sprung from her bosom.
In addition to social functions, Eureka has led in the support of every worthy philanthropic educational and political cause. The following is but a brief summary: Aid to Greece War relief, Greek Earthquake Funds, Manna Sanatorium, Orphans Funds and Save-a-Heart Fund. Foreign aid: United War Fund, The Near East Earthquake Fund. National projects: Ahepa Sanatorium, Ipsilanti Memorial, sale of $2,500,000 in War Bonds, Red Cross, Cooley's Anemia. Political Action: Justice and aid for Greece Elgin Marbles, Justice for Cyprus and the New Greek Immigration law. Local projects: Greek Institute of New York, Christmas Fund for Needy Families, Graduate's Dinner, Greek School Awards and three yearly Daughters of Penelope Scholarships. Church support: St. Basil's Academy and aid to St. Nicholas and St. Demetrios Church Projects.
Eureka responded to the crime and tragedy of Cyprus and the other Turkish acts and threats against the Greek World. THe continuing participation in national AHEPA affairs included several noteworthy happenings. Brother William Chirgotis climaxed the moving up through all of the national AHEPA officerships by serving as Supreme President for two succesful years. He also was the architect for the new AHEPA St. Basil's Academy dormitory for boys. His active involvement at the national level also included serving as the Chairman of the AHEPA First party. Brother Nick G. Paras was also recognized at the national level for service with distinction.
To conclude, it must be stated that Eureka has remained true to its history as a pioneering chapter. Now, we look to the future and see the need for strenthening our institutions so they can help us in passing on to our descendants our treasures and rich Hellenic inheritage.