Visit the Sick, Relieve the Distressed, Bury the Dead and Educate the Orphan

Stephanie Müller

Visit the Sick, Relieve the Distressed, Bury the Dead and Educate the Orphan: The Independent Order of Odd Fellows. A scientific work in the field of cultural studies

ISBN 978-3-86821-093-4, 166 S., 106 Abb., € 22,00 (CD-ROM, 2008)

(Cultural Studies in the Heartland of America, Bd. 10)

Up until now, the “three links”, symbol of the International Order of Odd Fellows, can be found at the buildings of schools, community centers and churches throughout the United States. But what do they represent, what does this ancient Order stand for? This work provides an overview of the Order’s history from its very beginnings until today. It explains its organizational structure and gives a comprehensive insight into its concept and contents, its symbols and ceremonies. In addition, it discusses the role famous Odd Fellows, such as U.S. presidents and politicians, played in society. Finally, information on the Order’s current situation and its future perspectives is provided. This work is one of the few recent documents written about the Odd Fellows in the United States. It can serve as an accessible overview for readers interested in the Order’s nature and is at the same time a well-documented source of profound knowledge of the Odd Fellows.