Notes on Friendly Society History -

This site is primarily about the history of the Ancient Order of Foresters. We do however cover other traditional branch Friendly Societies and Fraternal Orders. The photograph below shows that Friendly Societies could have a frivolous side, obviously it shows a group of Oddfellows (just look at the triple rings insignia) - but why are they dressed like like a group of 19th century bandits?

The fair answer is that they were enjoying themselves, although they look serious enough.