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Odd Fellows
The Idependent Order of Odd Fellows (IOOF), is a fraternal organization that began in Baltimore in 1819.

In 17th century England, it was odd to find people organized for the purpose of giving aid to those in need and of pursuing projects for the benefit of all mankind. Those who belonged to such an organization were called "Odd Fellows". Odd Fellows are also known as "The Three Link Fraternity" which stands for Friendship, Love and Truth.

The Independent Order of Odd Fellows was founded on the North American Continent in Baltimore, Maryland, on April 26, 1819 when Thomas Wildey and four members of the Order from England instituted Washington Lodge No. 1. This lodge received its charter from Manchester Unity of Odd Fellows in England.

Odd Fellowship became the 1st national fraternity to include both men and women when it adopted the beautiful Rebekah Degree on September 20, 1851. This degree is based on the teachings found in the Holy Bible, and was written by the Honorable Schuyler Colfax who was Vice President of the United States during the period 1868-1873. Odd Fellows and Rebekahs were also the first fraternal organization to establish homes for our senior members and for orphaned children. To read about the Order's history, click here


There are four branches to the IOOF:
1. Odd Fellows - Until Jan. 1, 2001 this was the all-male branch of Odd Fellows. Since 2001 started, women have been allowed to join.
2. Rebekahs - The Rebekahs were started as the female branch of Odd Fellows. Odd Fellows have always been allowed to join the Rebekahs.
3. Encampments - A branch of the Order with two parts. Encampments for men, and the Ladies Encampment Auxiliary (LEA).
4. Patriarchs Militant - The uniformed branch of the Order. Also has a part for women, the Ladies Auciliary Patriarchs Militant.


Activities Odd fellows try to help the world in several ways. We strive to visit the sick, bury the dead, educate the orphan and comfort the widowed. We also give vast amounts of money to very worthy charities. We have camps for kids and families. We have homes for the sick and elderly. We send students on a United Nations Pilgrimage for Youth to Washington D.C. and the United Nations. There are many more projects as well.

Odd Fellows and Rebekahs work hard to make the world a little better. We also have a lot of fun, and make some of the best friendships while doing it.


How to Join A man or woman of good character, who is loyal to his or her country and believes in a Supreme Being, the creator and preserver of the Universe, is eligible for membership. Odd Fellowship strictly forbids any interference with one's religious beliefs or political opinions. Most jurisdictions require candidates for the adult lodges to be 18 years old. Junior Lodges and Theta Rho clubs accept members 8 to 18 years old (some jurisdictions have a minimum age limit of 10).

For more detailed information click here.

For a detailed history of the origins of Odd Fellowship, click on the link then click on "History & Traditions". VERY interesting! Sheffield District  


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