The Independent order of Odd Fellows was started in England in the 1700s, & brought to America in 1819 by Thomas Wildey, who had been a member in England. The intent was to help one's fellow man and undertake works to benefit mankind. "Odd Fellows" because this was such a rare and unusual mission. Their sister organization is the Rebekahs, and the organization is alive and well. They enter a float yearly in the Pasadena Rose Parade. The Knights of Pythias (from the friendship of Damon & Pythias), was founded in Washington D.C. in 1864. Their goal is Universal Peace, Friendship, Charity, Benevolence. Also still active. The Jr. Order of United American Mechanics was founded in Philadelphia in 1845 as the Union of Workers. The original purpose was a kind of union movement to protect jobs from the influx of immigrants. No longer active. To learn more, use the search engine google.com and enter the name of the organization. There is a lot on the history of each. Regards, Virginia. ----- Original Message ----- From: <AnnaW9241@aol.com> To: <OHCLERMO-L@rootsweb.com> Sent: Monday, April 24, 2000 7:07 AM Subject: Ribbons > Would anyone know what these ribbons stand for? > One with: > Williamsburg > Council, No. 114 > Jr. O.U.A.M. > Williamsburg, > OHIO > > > another with: ANGOLA > Lodge, No.231 > I.O.O.F. > Williamsburg, OHIO > > > another with: Williamsburg > Lodge, No. 585 > K of P > Williamsburg, OHIO > > > Anna Wagner > >