The Independent Order of Odd Fellows is one of the largest and oldest fraternal orders in the United States. Odd Fellowship was founded in England
where it grew up during the 18th century. The Patriotic Order in England was followed by the Union of United Orders and the Loyal Order. In 1813,
various lodges of the Union Order organized the Manchester Unity of Odd Fellows.
American Odd Fellowship was founded as the Washington Lodge #1
in Baltimore in 1819, and the following year affiliated with the Manchester Unity.
