In 1986 former Chief, Earl Maudlin
directed that a unit history be written. Unfortunately, as the research began it
was discovered that a fire that destroyed the Arab Temple located in the 600 block
of Jackson Street also destroyed the historical documents of the Provost Guard.
It is known however that the Provost Guard was established shortly after the Arab
Temple was formed in 1933.
Initially members of the Provost Guard were comprised of men who were employed
as law enforcement officers. These men were responsible for carrying the flags ahead
of other Arab Temple units in parades. Guard members would often travel to various cities
within the Central States Shrine Association territory to participate in local parades and
various other activities. According to history, Guard members were selling soft drinks in the
Mosque Club Room located in the 600 block of Jackson Street as early as 1946. Today, Guard members
serve soft drinks along with other libatious beverages available to adults.
According to former Chief Warren Heumann the Provost Guard uniform dress has undergone
many changes throughout the years. The early uniform dress code is unknown to us but we do know
that sometime after 1946 Guard members wore green double-breasted coats and green trousers
with a yellow stripe. Later the uniform was changed to a red coat and red trousers with a
green stripe. This was replaced several years later with a medium blue tux jacket trimmed in black
and navy trousers. In 1978 Guard members chose the current uniform which consists of a light blue
jacket and navy trousers.
![[Picture of the Arab Shrine Temple]](Images/arabtemple.jpg)
![[emblem on door]](Images/MVC_005F.jpg)