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Authorized form of name
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Description area
Dates of existence
History
The Independent Order of Odd Fellows (I.O.O.F.) originated in England during the 18th century as a fraternal organization dedicated to mutual aid and charitable support among its members. The order was established in the United States in 1819 when Thomas Wildey organized the first American lodge in Baltimore, Maryland. The organization promotes the principles of Friendship, Love, and Truth and seeks to unite individuals in providing assistance to one another and to their communities.
As the movement expanded across the United States, lodges were established throughout the Dakota Territory and later South Dakota. The Grand Encampment of South Dakota served as the statewide governing body for the encampment branch of the Odd Fellows, which represents an advanced level of membership within the organization. The encampments oversaw ritual work, membership activities, and charitable initiatives, contributing to the broader mission of community service and mutual support.
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Functions, occupations and activities
Field of Activity: Fraternal organizations