Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 10174 was named in honor of community activist Charlie "King Tut" Tutson. Tutson served in the Army and as scoutmaster for Boy Scout Troop 234 for many years. Post 10174 is the first VFW chartered in south St. Peterburg.
The masonic lodge is in downtown is distinguished by its marble granite exterior. Besides cool ancient symbols and secret handshakes, the masonic order does a lot of charity work. The St. Pete lodge's charities include the Masonic Child ID Program, Ronald McDonald House and the Masonic Home of Florida, a residential care facility for aging members.
This sprawling brick Masonic Home is nestled next to Coffee Pot Bayou and a city park where kayakers launch their craft. Shaded by large oak trees, the Masonic Home provides residential care and support for aging members, their wives and widows. The Home is conveniently located next door to Northside Lodge, allowing senior members to attend weekly meetings. The Masonic Home of Florida is on 18 acres and owned by the Grand Lodge of Florida. It has been serving Master Masons since 1902.
Northside Lodge is steeped in local Masonic history. It was founded in 1948 by brethren meeting at Brewer's Garage on Haines Road. In 1949, the Lodge found a permanent home on 1st Street NE. It is located next to the Masonic Home, which has a residential facility for aging members. The Lodge accepts new members, and has an online application that potential members are welcome to fill out.