Newark in New Castle County, Delaware — The American Northeast (Mid-Atlantic)

Oriental Lodge #12, I.O.O.F.

Photographed by William Pfingsten, July 29, 2008

1. Oriental Lodge #12, I.O.O.F. Marker

Inscription. The origins of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows can be traced to the creation of beneficial trade societies in England. Composed of craftsmen who practiced a variety of different or "odd" occupations, the purpose of these organizations was to support the needs of members and improve the communities in which they lived. The I.O.O.F. was formally established in this country in 1819. In 1834, the Odd Follows of North America separated from the English Order. Some years later, a group of Newark residents organized for the purpose of establishing a local lodge. On February 11, 1847, a charter was granted for Oriental Lodge #12. The present Lodge Hall was constructed here on land that was conveyed to the organization in 1851. Like many such facilities, the structure was designed to include shops for places of business on the first floor, with a meeting room above. In addition to serving for a time as the location of the town's library and telephone exchange, the building has been occupied by tailors, jewelers, barbers, and a camera shop. since its organization, Oriental Lodge #12, I.O.O.F., has continued to "Improve and Elevate

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the Character of Mankind" through its many services to the citizens of Newark.

Erected 2004 by Delaware Public Archives. (Marker Number NC-139.)

Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Charity & Public Work • Fraternal or Sororal Organizations • Industry & Commerce • Notable Buildings. In addition, it is included in the Delaware Public Archives series list. A significant historical month for this entry is February 1865.

Location. 39° 40.983′ N, 75° 45.045′ W. Marker is in Newark, Delaware, in New Castle County. It is on E. Main Street, on the left when traveling west. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 69 E Main Street, Newark DE 19711, United States of America. Touch for directions.

Regionally, this marker is in Greater Wilmington and in Greater Philadelphia.

It is also in the American Mid-Atlantic,

on the Delmarva Peninsula,

and on the Eastern Seaboard. Globally, it is in the North Atlantic Region,

North America,

the Western Hemisphere,

the Western World,

and the Anglosphere.

Historically, it finds itself in what was once New Netherland

and also one of the

Oriental Lodge #12, I.O.O.F. Building image. Click for full size.

Photographed by William Pfingsten, July 29, 2008

2. Oriental Lodge #12, I.O.O.F. Building

original Thirteen Colonies.

Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker: Newark United Methodist Church (here, next to this marker); Albert Gallatin Lewis (within shouting distance of this marker); Elliott Hall (about 400 feet away, measured in a direct line); Newark Academy (about 400 feet away); a different marker also named Newark Academy (about 500 feet away); Veterans Memorial (about 500 feet away); George Abram Harter (1853-1943) (about 500 feet away); University of Delaware (about 500 feet away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Newark.

Oriental Lodge #12, I.O.O.F. Entrance image. Click for full size.

Photographed by William Pfingsten, July 29, 2008

3. Oriental Lodge #12, I.O.O.F. Entrance

The lodge is located on the second floor.

Credits. This page was last revised on June 16, 2016. It was originally submitted on August 3, 2008, by Bill Pfingsten of Bel Air, Maryland. This page has been viewed 2,422 times since then and 68 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3. submitted on August 3, 2008, by Bill Pfingsten of Bel Air, Maryland.