The Origin of Odd Fellowship in North America

The Independent Order of Odd Fellows as we know it today began in Baltimore, Maryland, where five members of the Order from England founded Washington Lodge No. 1 on April 26, 1819, by self­institution. That first meeting was held in the Sevens Stars Tavern.

One of these Brothers was Thomas Wildey, the first Noble Grand and the man revered as the founder of Odd Fellowship in North America. A charter was received from Duke of York Lodge in Preston, England, in 1820, a year and a half after its self-institution.

In 1821, the "Grand Lodge of Maryland and of the United States of America, of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows," was founded. Brother Wildey also served as the first Grand Master/ Grand Sire of the first Grand Lodge, for a period of 12 years. Several more lodges were estab­lished, and in 1824, the "Grand Lodge of the United States" now termed "The Sovereign Grand Lodge," was separated from the Grand Lodge of Maryland.

The Independent Order of Odd Fellows in North America (United States and Canada) became independent from the Order in England in 1834.

In modern times the Odd Fellows and Rebekahs have been in the forefront of nearly all organiza­tions in helping to make this world a better place in which to live. Odd Fellowship is a family fraternity with activities and programs for every member of the family.