The History of American Odd Fellowship The First Decade is a book written by James L. Ridgely. It is a comprehensive account of the origins and development of the Odd Fellows, a fraternal organization that first emerged in England in the 18th century and later spread to the United States in the early 19th century. The book focuses specifically on the first decade of the Odd Fellows' history in America, from 1819 to 1829. Ridgely provides a detailed history of the organization's founding and early growth, as well as its key figures and events during this period. He also explores the social and cultural context in which the Odd Fellows emerged, including the rise of the working class and the changing nature of American society in the early 19th century. The book is based on extensive research and draws on a wide range of primary sources, including letters, diaries, and other historical documents. It is written in a clear and engaging style, making it accessible to both scholars and general readers interested in the history of fraternal organizations in America. Overall, The History of American Odd Fellowship The First Decade is a valuable contribution to the study of American social and cultural history.1878. Compendious history of the fraternal order of Odd Fellows in America, with special focus on the decade of the 1820s, the first decade of its existence in the United States. Illustrated. Contents: Introduction; Washington Lodge, No. 1; John Boyd; G. Lodge of Md. and of the U.S.; John Welch; Grand Lodge of Maryland; Augustus Mathiot; Richard Marley; Grand Lodge of the United States; John Pawson Entwisle; Secret principle; Thomas Wildey; Degrees and encampment branch; Odd Fellowship in MA; Grand Lodge in MA; Odd Fellowship in NY; Odd Fellowship in PA; Grand Lodge in PA; District of Columbia; Theory of the degrees.This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.