About the Independent Order of Odd Fellows (IOOF)
The Independent Order of Odd Fellows (IOOF) is a global fraternal organization
dedicated to the enduring principles of Friendship, Love, and Truth.
Rooted in traditions that trace back to 18th‑century England, Odd Fellowship was established
to promote personal integrity, mutual aid, and community service at a time when social support
systems were limited or nonexistent.
The Order was formally introduced in the United States in 1819, when Thomas Wildey
and four fellow Odd Fellows founded Washington Lodge No. 1 in Baltimore, Maryland. From that moment,
the IOOF grew rapidly across the nation, establishing lodges, charitable programs, and benevolent
institutions that strengthened communities and supported families in times of need.
Today, the IOOF continues its mission through:
- Fratertral fellowship that builds character, leadership, and lifelong friendships
- Charitable outreach supporting education, health, disaster relief, and community improvement
- Service programs that uplift youth, assist the elderly, and provide aid to those facing hardship
- Commitment to ethical living, personal responsibility, and the betterment of all humanity
The IOOF remains one of the world’s oldest and most respected fraternal orders, carrying forward a
legacy of compassion, unity, and civic responsibility. Lodges across Kentucky and around the world
continue to exemplify the belief that we are stronger when we work together for the good of all.
Source: Sovereign Grand Lodge. (1983). Independent Order of Odd Fellows.
https://odd-fellows.org/about/odd-fellows/
The Great Flood of 1937 — A Reflection for Today
The Great Flood of 1937 remains one of the most devastating natural disasters ever to strike Kentucky. Entire towns disappeared under water, families were displaced, and communities were forced to rebuild from nothing. As I continue my research, I came across a letter written during that terrible time — a letter that could just as easily have been written today.
“The story is the same, only the names have been changed.”
Those words struck me. Because as we watch the destruction in Eastern Kentucky today — the homes lost, the families grieving, the communities struggling to recover — we hear the same stories our ancestors lived through in 1937. Different year, different county, different names… but the same heartbreak.
And just like in 1937, the Odd Fellows are still here.
We are helping. We are donating. We are delivering goods. We are showing up — not for recognition, not for reward, but because that is who we are. It is who we have always been.
When disaster strikes, Odd Fellows stand together.
When people suffer, Odd Fellows respond.
When communities fall, Odd Fellows help them rise again.
I am proud to say it: I am an Odd Fellow.
IOOF Mission & Values
Our Mission
The mission of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows is to promote
Friendship, Love, and Truth through personal growth, mutual aid,
and service to humanity. The Order seeks to improve the character of its members,
strengthen communities, and provide relief to those in need. Odd Fellowship teaches
that every person has a responsibility to uplift others, protect the vulnerable,
and work toward a more compassionate world.
Our Core Values
Friendship
We foster genuine fellowship, unity, and respect among members.
Love
We practice kindness, charity, and goodwill toward all.
Truth
We uphold honesty, integrity, and moral character.
Relief
We provide assistance to those facing adversity.
Equality
We affirm the inherent worth of every person.
Service
We work to improve our communities through volunteerism and humanitarian projects.
Grand Lodge of Kentucky at Caproni’s on the River
2026 — Maysville, Kentucky
Banquet and Awards Ceremony
John Redmond receives the Odd Fellow of the Year Award,
presented by outgoing Grand Master Randy Harrison.