The Independent Order of Odd Fellows also known as "The Three Link Fraternity" which stands for Friendship, Love and Truth was founded in 17th century England to improve and elevate the character of man. Odd Fellowship became the 1st national fraternity to include both men and women when it adopted the beautiful Rebekah Degree in 1851. Odd Fellows and Rebekahs were also the first fraternal organization to establish homes for our senior members and for orphaned children. The mandate for Odd Fellows is to visit the sick, relieve the distressed, bury the dead, and educate the orphan.