Lodge Goals
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 Widley
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.