Eagles set to re-open doors after hiatus

Published 10:52 am Thursday, October 1, 2009

IRONTON — One of Ironton’s most popular fraternal organizations is coming back soon.

The Ironton Fraternal Order of Eagles No. 895 will be reopening its doors “in about two weeks” FOE member Tony Layne said Tuesday.

The Aerie, located at 1305 S. Third St., has been dark since March 2008 when the fraternal club’s national Grand Aerie closed the club down amidst alleged infighting and internal conflicts between several different factions of members.

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Since January, remaining members of the club have met to discuss efforts to re-open the club. Layne said the club currently has approximately 150 paid members and is in the process of initiating two additional classes.

Layne said the club still is in possession of its Ohio State Liquor License and is in the process of obtaining its vendor’s license. He said once the club does reopen, members would notice changes immediately.

“This is going to be a nice place to have a drink and get away,” Layne said, while referring to the club’s past history of having bands and being loud. “It’s going to be a little more quiet than it had been.”

The club had a decorated history of donating money to the Ironton Police Department, Ironton Fire Department and the Lawrence County Sheriff’s Department.

The Aerie also had established and awarded scholarships and provided for the sick, elderly and those with needs.

Layne did not have any information on the status of the club’s Ladies Auxiliary.