Question: I recall my finding in my great-grandfather's belongings fraternal items for the Odd Fellows. How early did they exist in this country?
Answer: Unlike the Grand Lodge of Masons first chartered in the American Colonies in 1733, the Odd Fellows have later roots. The earliest lodge relating to Odd Fellows was the Loyal Aristarcus Lodge in London dates to 1730. In 1819 the I.O.O.F started and was affiliated with the British order until the mid 1830's.