A collection of ritual objects, costumes, props, instruments and ephemera of the Independent Order of the Odd Fellows (I. O. O. F.), in practice of their fraternal commitments to Friendship, Love and Truth (F. L. T. / three links). 100 West was originally constructed as an Odd Fellows Lodge in the 1890s, hosting membership through the 1950s. Former meetings halls are now studios for our artists and writers. These exhibited objects come from several sources: primarily the 1890s I. O. O. F. Lodge reactivated as 100 West, and the collection of Bruce and Julie Webb under "Belonging: Art of the American Fraternal Societies" by Potter & Potter Auctions, Chicago, represented in the book by Bruce Lee Webb and Lynne Adele, As Above, So Below: Art of the American Fraternal Society, 1850-1930.
AXES: Much like an axe is used to fell sick trees, this symbol represents the removal of negative traits that "do not bear good fruit" in a person's character. The axe signifies cutting through obstacles that prevent members from fulfilling their mission to "visit the sick, relieve the distressed, bury the dead and educate the orphan".
SWORDS: In many fraternal rituals, a sword (including references to "Goliath's sword" or swords of "justice") acts as a reminder of the need to defend truth, uphold, and maintain, and act with the "Friendship, Love, and Truth" that the organization values.
CROOKS: Crooks refers to shepherd’s crooks (staffs) used as a symbolic emblem, representing the "watchful care" and guidance that members are expected to provide to one another, their families, and the community.
BUNDLES OF STICKS: In the context of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows (IOOF), the bundle of sticks (often referred to as a bundle of rods or a faggot) is a key emblem symbolizing that "in unity, there is strength". It is a lesson rooted in Aesop's Fables, illustrating that while a single stick is easily broken, a bundle of sticks tied together is nearly impossible to break.
GOLIATH MASK: The mask was used during the first-degree initiation ceremony of the Odd Fellows. It symbolizes Goliath and is removed after the ritualistic "slaying" of Goliath by David, representing triumph over obstacles or evil.
KING COSTUME: The "King" (sometimes referred to in conjunction with "King Saul" or "Past Grand High Priest" costumes) was worn by officers conducting or participating in advanced degrees, specifically those that involved storytelling or biblical reenactments.
WARDEN COSTUME: Warden is a specific officer, and their costume (often referred to as regalia) symbolizes their role as the guardian of the lodge’s entrance and the protector of the order. The costume and related items, such as the Warden's Axe, are used during initiation rituals and lodge meetings to maintain order and security. The Warden is responsible for examining members for passwords, ensuring the security of the lodge, and assisting in the initiation of candidates.
MAGIC LANTERN: The device was part of a broader, late-19th-century culture of using, "magic lantern" projectors for both entertainment and, in the case of the Odd Fellows, for illustrating rituals and, presentations during meetings.
