Fraternal and friendly societies and trade unions - associations that
provide mutual aid and benefits - have a long, fascinating history and
the most famous of them - the Freemasons - have a reputation for
secrecy, ritual and intrigue that excites strong interest and has been
the subject of widespread misunderstanding. Daniel Weinbren, in this
concise and accessible handbook, dispels the myths that surround them
and gives readers an insight into their real purposes, their membership
and their development over the centuries. He has also compiled a
detailed compendium of books, archives, libraries, and internet sites
that readers and researchers can consult to find out more about these
organizations and to trace the involvement and experience of family
members who were connected with them.
The origins of these societies are explored as are their economic,
social and civic functions and the impact they had on the lives of
individuals who joined them. The range of such societies covered
includes the popular and international ones such as the Oddfellows,
Foresters and Rechabites, as well as the smaller local fraternal
organizations. The type of assistance they offer, their structure and
hierarchy, meetings and ceremonies, regalia and processions, and feasts
and annual gatherings are all described and explained.
So much information about these organizations and their membership is
easily available if you know where to look, and Daniel Weinbren's work
is the ideal introduction to them. Anyone who has a forebear who was at
some time linked with one of these organizations will find his book to
be an essential guide to their research.
