The Grand Lodge of Ohio
Guardians of the sacred chain of Friendship, Love, and Truth since 1819
Our Sacred Mission
“To improve and elevate the character of mankind by promoting the sacred principles of Friendship, Love, and Truth, to visit the sick, relieve the distressed, bury the dead, and educate the orphan—fulfilling our ancient covenant of fraternal service to humanity.”
Our Heritage and Legacy
The Independent Order of Odd Fellows (IOOF) stands as one of the most venerable fraternal orders in the world. Founded in Baltimore, Maryland in 1819 by Brother Thomas Wildey, our ancient Order has spread its sacred chain of fellowship across the United States and around the globe, uniting thousands of brothers and sisters in the bonds of Friendship, Love, and Truth.
The name “Odd Fellows” dates back to 18th century England, where the fraternal order provided mutual aid to working people during times of sickness or hardship—considered an “odd” practice at the time. The American branch became independent from the English Order in 1842, establishing its own unique identity and traditions.
The Grand Lodge of Ohio has been a cornerstone of the IOOF movement since its early days, serving communities throughout the state with dedication to our core principles. Our lodges have been centers of community service, fellowship, and support for generations of Ohioans.
Throughout our history, we have been pioneers in inclusivity. In 1851, the Rebekah Degree was established, making the IOOF one of the first major fraternal organizations to admit women. Today, we continue to welcome all who share our values, regardless of background.
The Three Sacred Principles
Friendship
The first link in our sacred chain, Friendship binds us in fraternal fellowship. We cultivate genuine bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood that transcend the lodge room, supporting one another through life's journey with mutual respect, trust, and devotion to shared ideals.
Love
The second link, Love, flows through our hearts as compassion and service to humanity. We extend the hand of fellowship to our brothers and sisters in times of need, serve our communities through charitable works, and demonstrate love in action through deeds both great and humble.
Truth
The third link, Truth, stands as the foundation of our integrity and moral character. We pledge ourselves to honesty in all dealings, seek truth in wisdom and understanding, and honor truth in our relationships. This sacred principle guides our path and illuminates our way forward.
Additional Guiding Values
Faith
Faith in a higher power and in the goodness of humanity drives our mission and inspires our service.
Hope
We maintain hope for a better future and work tirelessly to bring that vision to reality in our communities.
Charity
Through charitable works and community service, we demonstrate love in action and make a tangible difference.
Sacred Symbols of Our Order
The Three-Link Chain
The sacred emblem of our ancient Order is the three-link chain, each link embodying one of our fundamental principles: Friendship, Love, and Truth. Forged together, these links form an unbreakable bond that unites all who bear the name of Odd Fellow.
This timeless symbol teaches us that we are bound together in fraternal fellowship—to one another, to our communities, and to all humanity. Just as a chain derives its strength from each link, so our Order flourishes when every brother and sister honors these eternal principles. Through this sacred chain, we extend the hand of fellowship across generations, connecting the past, present, and future in an unending circle of service and devotion.
Our Organization
Grand Lodge of Ohio
The Grand Lodge serves as the governing body for all Odd Fellows lodges in Ohio, providing leadership, coordination, and support to local lodges throughout the state.
Lodge Types
Local Lodges
Community-based lodges serving local areas with regular meetings, social activities, and community service.
Rebekah Lodges
Since 1851, Rebekah Lodges have welcomed women into the Order, fostering sisterhood and service.
Encampment
The Encampment branch focuses on advanced degrees and deeper study of Odd Fellows principles.
Global Reach
With approximately 600,000 members in 12,000 lodges across 26 countries, the IOOF is truly a global organization, united by shared values and a commitment to making the world a better place.