The John Hoopler Society was a phenomenon that thoroughly captivated British and American culture in the 1870s.

Chapters Formed in every major city in the U.S. and Greater Britain. Their popularity was unprecedented given that there was no charter outlining the purpose of the society and anyone could claim themselves the Great Hoopler, a title that supposedly indicated leadership and the ability to collect dues.

Several times a year, the society would sponsor a parade and had many representatives with collection boxes along the parade route. Purportedly, rather hostile means were used to garner donations.

The only thing that seemed to always accompany the parade goers was an elephant and/or a large brown bear, with every elimination event performed by the animals being met with loud cheering and a great quenching of thirst.

By 1880, the society had been outlawed in every English speaking country as collection wars and general mayhem accompanied every Hoopler event.