E Clampus Vitus

Is the motto for the Honorable Fraternal Organization of Clampers. Singular use, Clamper. A brotherhood, like the Elks or Shriners that started in the 1800s during the gold rush days. It started as a spoof on the more serious organizations. But quickly became a humorous gathering of men dedicated to carousing, and to keeping history alive, an example would be famous bordello's of the 19th century. The purpose of the organization is stated 'To take care of the widows and orphans ... especially the widows.'

This brotherhood is by invitation only, and you can only be invited once. If you accept, prepare for a grueling initiation ceremony. Membership is generally in Northern California, male only, and members usually wear miners garb, such as a red shirt, suspender's, Levi's and pants tucked into their boots. Clampers also like putting plaques up in places oft overlooked by historians, like old bars.

From my knowledge of Clampers, living in Paradise, California.