Telocvicna Jednota Sokol was founded in Crete, NE on May 4 1884. The current Sokol Hall was built in 1915 after the previous hall had burnt down. Although the building burned to the ground the creed survived and still survives today:
- WE AMERICAN SOKOLS OF CZECH DESCENT MUTUALLY AGREE TO STRIVE FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF MEN AND WOMEN STRONG IN MIND AND BODY
- WE AIM TO PROMOTE THE BETTERMENT OF OUR HERITAGE.
- WE REALIZE THAT EDUCATION AND HIGH ETHICS ARE THE ONLY ROAD TO A BETTER WAY OF LIFE WITH OUR FELLOWMEN.
- WE PLEDGE OURSELVES TO OPPOSE ANYONE, WHO IN ANY WAY, WOULD INTERFERE WITH OUR RIGHTS AND OUR FREEDOM, AND THUS PREVENT THE DEVELOPMENT OF OUR FREEDOM-LOVING ORGANIZATION AND OUR COUNTRY THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.
Membership has dwindled over the years but it is seeing a resurgence. Many Czech and non-Czech members of the Crete community are expressing interest in seeing Sokol Hall renovated. For membership information you may email info@cretesokol.org.
Crete T.J. Sokol 