COUNCIL INFORMATION
Father McGivney started the Knights of Columbus in 1882; 25 years later Council 1257 was formed.
The current Eau Claire Council commenced on July 21, 1907. Joseph A. Stilp was our first Grand Knight. Beginning with 45 members, the Council's original priority was to provide assistance to the churches, youth groups and other organizations.
In 1964, the original Eau Claire Council was renamed to the present John F. Kennedy Council 1257. At this time, two other Councils in the Eau Claire area - the Pacelli Council and the Roncalli Council - merged with the Eau Claire Council. The three Councils collectively became the John F. Kennedy Council. Membership at that point was 369 - a high point for the Council.
The first Grand Knight of the merged Councils was Gerald E. Olson, a charter member of the Pacelli Council of Eau Claire and initiated into the Knights of Columbus in 1959. We have met in the Thomas Road Council Hall since 1967.