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Odd-Fellowship in Cambridge.
Of the many fraternal organizations which exist among us, none occupies a more commanding and reputable position than that of the
Independent Order of Odd Fellows.
From its early inception in this country—seventy-seven years ago—it has steadily gained in strength and popularity, until now it is one of the most powerful, numbering over one million two hundred thousand members.
While it is a secret society, yet its good works are so manifest, and, in a public way, it has so moved in and among the people, that, with its evident and demonstrated intent to bless mankind, it seems to be of and for the world.
The Order was first founded in
England in the eighteenth century, although its principles were entirely different from those adopted at its organization in the
United States.
The first American lodge was instituted in
Baltimore, Maryland, April 26, 1819.
Its primary avowed purpose to cultivate sociability among its select few rapidly changed into assuming new responsibilities and prosecuting new lines of work.
It adopted as its motto, ‘Friendship, Love, and Truth,’ and as its aim, to adapt these principles to every-day life.
Hence it has made its labor practical.
Fidelity to the laws of God, the laws of the
State, and to all the duties of citizenship, is strictly enjoined.
It seeks to assist brothers when in need, to minister to the sick and suffering, to alleviate distress by personal presence, to exert an uplifting influence by which character may be better unfolded and a richer manhood secured, and with a pure brotherly interest and affection such as its principles inculcate, to afford protection and helpfulness to the widows and orphans of deceased brothers.
Vast sums of money have been expended by the Order in the ways indicated.
More than money, however, has been the ministration of love's helpfulness, the positive
