E. Clampus Vitus

Our Origins (Estanislao Chapter 58)

E Clampus Vitus Chapter 58, known as the Estanislao Chapter, was officially chartered on April 13, 1958 at Grand Council in Petaluma, CA. Our first official gathering—the Charter Doin’s—took place in Knights Ferry on June 21, 1958, where 37 Poor Blind Candidates (PBCs) were initiated.

Who Is Estanislao?

Our chapter honors Chief Estanislao, a courageous Miwuk leader who resisted oppression in the 1820s. His spirit of independence and unity guides our brotherhood. Each gathering includes a Ceremony for the Dead to remember Chief Estanislao and our departed brothers.

Doin’s & Traditions

Our chapter has grown to initiate thousands of members and host legendary Doin’s with over a thousand Redshirts and hundreds of PBCs. We gather on the third Saturday of April and the third Saturday of October each year to celebrate history, fellowship, and service.

Our Officers

The Clampers Creed

As I pass through life, may I always be humble;
may I never take myself seriously;
may I always appreciate a little of the ridiculous;
may I always be a two-fisted Clamper when the bottle passes my way and if I imbibe, and can't hold it like a man,
then may I always be able to pass it to the next brother;
may I never forget the stout-hearted men who settled a great western wilderness and the heritage we have today.
May I never fail to appreciate a bit of western lore.

-Anonymous-

E Clampus Vitus History

E Clampus Vitus was incorporated in California in 1915 by businessmen in Marysville who revived the organization. In the early 1930s, the modern revival began with the reorganization led by dedicated historians and preservationists.

The Grand Council consists of all current and former Noble Grand Humbugs (NGHs) from all chapters. It meets annually in Sonora the weekend before Memorial Day, where Proctors govern the organization and new chapters are chartered.