Knights of Columbus (KOC) was chartered in New Haven, Connecticut by Father Michael J. Givney as a fraternal benefit society in 1882. The order was founded on the principles of charity, unity and fraternity; to render financial assistance and other aid to members and their families and to promote social and intellectual fellowship among members and their families.
Throughout the years, the KOC has grown to more than 13,000 councils with 1.7 million members worldwide. The Wheaton council (No. 2169) began in 1920 by Fr. Rosensteel and boasts of a membership of over 1,200 to date. The Wheaton council is considered one of the largest and most active councils with various activities and services including catering for members and the community.