History of the Rajah Shrine String Band

In 1957, Illustrious Potentate Aaron S Kroner approved the formation of the String Band Unit. Five Banjo players were recruited and with this humble start the now famous Rajah Shrine String Band was organized.

The String Band is known throughout the Shrine organization and many communities for the colorful float that is used in parades. The float was designed by one of the members, Noble Harold Ulmer, (deceased) and was constructed by Trailmobile in Lancaster, Pennsylvania in 1962. Another member, Noble Ralph Zimmerman (deceased) of Pottsville, Pa, did all the artwork.

Throughout the summer the String Band is invited to participate annually, near and far, in numerous community concerts and parades. The Band has performed in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and also at functions outside Pennsylvania as follows:

Miami and Orlando, Florida; Baltimore, Cumberland, Ocean City, Hagerstown and Tuckahoe, Maryland; Atlantic City, Ocean City and Wildwood, New Jersey; Ritz Carlton Hotel, New York City; Virginia Beach, Virginia; Washington D.C. and Toronto, Canada.

The National Shrine Organization staffs, operates and maintains 19 Orthopedic Hospitals and 3 Burn Centers across North America. The Shrine Organization will provide free orthopedic treatment to any child regardless of race or creed. Thousands of Shrine Units, just like Rajah Shrine String Band, across America undertake various activities to help support these Hospitals.

The Rajah Shrine String Band has approximately 33 playing musicians, support personnel and 3 honorary members: Past Potentates Leroy D. Cressy, Jack B. Gounder, and Ronald F. Rapp. Its purpose is "that we might play our instruments so that some day a physically challenged child might walk and play again."

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