The Oddfellows Fraternity

The Independent Order of Oddfellows is one of the oldest and largest fraternal organisations that is open to both men and women, with around 100,000 members in the U.K. plus half a million members in 30 countries across the world. The society began in the City of London in the early 18th century, evolving from the old English trade guilds. The first group in South Yorkshire dates from around 1760. The name Oddfellows is thought to have originally been used to describe a society which took members from all different trades and walks of life

Following the traditions of the guilds, the Oddfellows is a society formed of people with shared values of benevolence and charity who join together for friendship and support, providing social, financial and practical help for each other. We contribute together to defend and promote the good and welfare of our fellow members and, when necessary, provide such assistance as is within our power.

We get together to celebrate & promote our values, to share the enjoyment of life and to help each other in times of need, seeking to give practical expression to the Golden Rule to "treat others as we would wish them to treat us".