Odd Fellows established (1867)

Post date: Mar 22, 2013 4:4:52 PM

Advert from Maidstone Telegraph of 7th December 1867

WATERINGBURY.

INDEPENDENT ORDER OF ODD FELLOWS (Manchester Unity), Friendly Society.

I hereby give notice that on Monday, the Ninth of December Next, a New Lodge, in connection with the above Society, will be opened at the Queen's Head. Wateringbury, when any person of Good Health and Character, from 18 to 45 years of age, may become Members by first making application to me, at the Queen's Head, Wateringbury.

(Signed) WILLIAM W. BARTON.

The above society is known to be one of the largest societies in the world; the number of members being, on the 1st January, 1867,upwards of 405,000, and the reserved fund upwards of two millions; and being based on that best of principles, the graduated scale of payments according to the age of members. Every person joining the same may rest assured of obtaining in time of need the amount he pays for. The above society has branches in nearly every town in England and Wales ; many in Ireland and Scotland, the West Indies, Gibraltar, Malta, South Africa, the whole of the Australian Colonies, the Canadas, North America, and Constantinople. Into any of these Lodges members can pay their contributions and receive from them their benefits subject to the rules. This society has amongst it, in nearly every county and country, the higher and wealthier classes as honorary and financial members. To the working classes it says—examine our rules, inspect our financial statements, and if you think it worthy, join and provide for times of need.