ODD-FELLOWS, the name assumed by one of the most extensive self-governed provi dent associations in the world. The institution was originated in Manchester in 1812, although isolated "lodges" had existed in various parts of the country for some time previously. These latter were generally secret fraternities, humble imitations of Free masonry—adopting a similar system of initiatory rites, phraseology, and organization— instituted for social and convivial purposes, and only occasionally extending charitable assistance to members. On its institution in Manchester, the main purpose of odd fellowship was declared by its laws to be, "to render assistance to every brother who may apply through sickness, distress, or otherwise, if he be well attached to the queen and government, and faithful to the order;" and this continues to be the basis of all its operations. It still, however, retains some of the characteristics of freemasonry, in pos sessing pass-words and peculiar "grips," whereby members can recognize one another. 'The headquarters of the society are at Manchester, where the grand-master and board of directors meet quarterly to hear appeals, and transact the general business of the order. In Jail., 1852, the total number of members was 224,441; in Jan., 1878, the number was 526,802. The lodges number 4,121. spread over 456 districts; the annual income being
about .41520,000, with considerably less expenditure. Should any lodge fail to meet its legitimate obligations, the district becomes liable; failing the district, the responsibility falls upon the entire The order is widely spread over the whole of England and Scotland. It exists independently in America (where there are near 420,000 members of the separated association), Australia, New Zealand, and the West Indies; but there are " lodges" in Philadelphia, New York, in all the British colonies, and one in Constanti nople (originated in 1862), which are affiliated to and in connection with the Manchester board. These widespread ramifications of this society enable emigrant members to be at once received into fellowship in those countries. In the American states, odd fellowship is said to exercise considerable political influence. A quarterly periodical, called the Oddleihrcs'Hagazine, devoted to its interests, is published in Manchester. In an early number of this publication, an odd-fellow is described as "like a fox for cun ning, a dove for tiOneuess, a lamb for innocence, a lion for boldness, a bee for industry, and a sheep for usefulness."