Hi,

I just saw on the internet a photo of a group of men from 'Washington Camp No. 8, P.O.S. of A., Harrisburg, PA'. The gentleman who's answer to 'What is P.O.S. of A. and Washington Camp' is correct. It stands for 'Patriotic Order Sons of America'. The 'Washington Camp' is what each Camp begins with- ie: Washington Camp #___.

The Order was founded by Dr. Reynell Coates in Phila. PA on December 10, 1847, and still exists. There were at one time Camps in many states, but PA always had the most Camps and # of members. There were over 800 Camps in PA back in the 1930's, now there are about 53, plus one in both NJ and NC. There are only about 1400 or so members left in PA, so we are struggling for survival. We are still bringing in new members, though, so we're not licked yet!

We promote patriotism, protection of and respect for the American Flag, education, and patriotism in general. We were instrumental in the purchase and restoration of Washington's Headquarters in Valley Forge(The State of PA took it over after we did all the work), the preservation of Adm. Dewey's flagship Olympia, and it was through the efforts of the P.O.S. of A. that Flag Day was made a national holiday.

I was glad to see the photo- I just happen to have the exact same one myself! I hope all this helps.- Thanks for your interest!