Connecting with our community on a personal level is an important part of The Odd Fellows. Here is a
brief history and some details about the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, the Odd Fellows of Pikeville and
the people behind it.
A Brief History About The Order...
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.
About the Pikeville Odd Fellows...
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