Independent Order of Odd Fellows. Alturas Lodge No. 80 (La Porte, Calif.)

The Independent Order of Odd Fellows. Fraternal society, introduced to America by Englishman Thomas Wildey in 1819. Order established in San Francisco, Calif. in 1849, and Alturas Lodge established December 8, 1858 in La Porte, Plumas County. The Lodge served not only as a social and relief organization, but also provided an avenue for justice. Charges of unbecoming conduct brought against a member by an individual or by the lodge were tried by a committee. Sustained charges could mean expulsion and the loss of relief benefits.

History

The Independent Order of Odd Fellows, a fraternal society, was introduced to America by Englishman Thomas Wildey in 1819. The Order was established in San Francisco, Calif. in 1849, and Alturas Lodge was established December 8, 1858 in La Porte, Plumas County. The Lodge served not only as a social and relief organization, but also provided an avenue for justice. Charges of unbecoming conduct brought against a member by an individual or by the lodge were tried by a committee. Sustained charges could mean expulsion and the loss of relief benefits.