The Order of Alhambra is named after the ancient, magnificent palace, in Granada, Spain where the Moors finally surrendered to Ferdinand and Isabella in 1492 after occupying Spain for almost 900 years.
The Order has taken that occupation as its historic theme . The symbols, the red tower of Castile and the crescent of the Saracen have been chosen in recognition of an advanced and accomplished society. The members of the Order wear fezes which are white to denote purity.
The names of caravans are taken from Spanish cities events, and people of the period of the Moorish occupation.
Court of the Lions
The Alhambra, Granada, Spain
ABOUT ABEN ZOAR
Aben Zoar Caravan was formed on November 23, 1958 after, then District Commander, Joe Braun contacted Bob Day about forming a new caravan in California.
Aben Zoar was the name of a Moorish pharmacist whose work was studied until comparatively recent times.
ABEN ZOAR ACTIVITIES
We have several social functions for our members and their guest each year such as Founder's Day, a Hobo party and a Christmas party. Depending upon the occasion some of the events are held in conjunction with other Caravans in the Southern California area.
Each year we join together with other caravans to put on a "Field Day" of games for about 200 of the developmentally disabled. After the games, we provide the participants and the people accompanying them with a delicious lunch.
The Field Day is usually held in October on the school grounds of St. Luke's Parish in Temple City.
For more information, you may contact us by E-mail
Swallow's Day Parade
The city of San Juan Capistrano has a parade every year to celebrate the return of the swallows to the Mission. Aben Zoar Caravan, along with our mascot, the camel Ahab, join the other caravans from the Region in the parade. It has always been a crowd pleaser and our group has won several awards.
Our Mascot, Ahab the Camel
Parties for the Developmentally Disabled
On a continuing basis during the year, we provide refreshments at special parties to celebrate Valentine's Day, School Graduation, and Halloween. About 100 people attend these parties that are held in a nearby community.
We hold a Christmas party for about 150 of the developmentally disabled. The event is started with a Mass, following which everyone is served a delicious lunch.
The highlight of the party is when Santa Claus arrives to pass out gifts to all the "kids".
ALHAMBRA HOUSE
Alhambra House provides assisted living for six young men with developmental disabilities.
Sir Noble Manny Castillo, along with Supreme Chamberlain Bob Santos, was instrumental in obtaining a grant of $55,000 from our Order to the Marian Homes for the purchase of the home in 1996.
Members of our Caravan continue to provide financial support to the home.
CATHOLIC HISTORICAL SITES
One of the original purposes of our Order is the marking and memorializing of Catholic historic sites in North America.
To this end, Aben Zoar Caravan dedicated a plaque marking Our Lady of Guadalupe Mission Church in Irwindale , California. It is located in the San Gabriel Valley about 30 miles east of Los Angeles .
It was built of field stone by early residents of the area who felt the need of a local place to worship.
The population in the area has outgrown the church and it is only used now for special occasions. It is affectionately know n as the "little rock church" and is loved and preserved by the people of Irwindale.
Our Lady of Guadalupe Church
Irwindale, California.
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