While most members are aware, some are still not aware that the Calumet City Lodge #1 was the predecessor to all Illinois Lodges, hence Lodge #1. We are proud of our heritage and take seriously our responsibility to represent the brave and dedicated members of the this historic lodge.

On November 29th, 1937, a charter was granted by the Grand Lodge of the Fraternal Order of Police, Incorporated, Pittsburgh Pennsylvania, May 14th, 1915; and under that Charter, Calumet City Lodge No. 1, Fraternal Order of Police, was on November 29th, 1937, constituted a Subordinate Lodge with full power to work under their jurisdiction at the City of Calumet City, Illinois. In 1998, to recognize the 60th anniversary of Lodge #1, the Honorable Jerry Weller recognized the hard work and dedication exhibited by members of this organization in his remarks to the Congress of the United States.

A Calumet City born and raised resident went to war in WW II, and then came home and to serve Calumet City as a police officer moving up to Chief, before retiring in 1972. Chief Linkiewicz was honored in an article in The Times on Tuesday 8/1/06.

A Cook County Circuit Court judge Friday upheld an arbitrator's decision saying Calumet City police officers don't necessarily have to live within city limits to comply with local residency laws. With that ruling, Lodge 1 claimed victory in possibly the greatest fight in its history.

The webmaster is very interested in the history of this historic lodge and specifically the members that made the organization what it is today. Any information that can be forwarded would be greatly appreciated. If you have had friends or family members that worked for the Calumet City Police Department, please send us an email.