Objects

Viewing Record 1 of 2
Next Record
Switch Views: Lightbox | Image List | List

Independent Order of Odd Fellows Astoria Lodge No. 38 Apron
1846-1862
Maker not marked
USA: Probably Maine
silk, leather, bullion, sequins, cotton
overall: 14-1/2"h x 19"w x 1/4"d
Museum Purchase
2015.027

Independent Order of Odd Fellows Astoria Lodge No. 38 apron. Shield-shaped body and flap. White silk with pleated red silk and silver bullion trim. Stitched to the flap are red leather letters spelling "Astoria." Stitched to the body are red leather letters spelling "Lodge." Below this are two silver bullion and sequin rosettes flanking a silver bullion three-link chain. Red velvet fills in center of links. Natural cotton backing. Bound along the top edge with red silk ribbon. Red silk ribbon bows at corners.


IOOF Astoria Lodge No. 38 was founded in Frankfort, Maine, in 1846. By 1849, the lodge numbered 83 members. The last meeting of the lodge was held December 30, 1862. According to a short history of the lodge, "various causes combined led to the death of the Lodge. Many of the members moved away, others lost all interest in the order, and a few proved themselves unworthy. One, who held a prominent position, used a large portion of the fund, leaving worthless paper as security. This soured and disappointed many, and finally the Lodge ceased work." Accompanying the apron is a receipt from July 1, 1849, documenting that Brother Leonard B. Pratt paid his quarterly assessments for nine months, for a total of $2.25. The receipt is signed by the secretary, C. Johnson.