The IOR was a friendly society founded in England in 1835. It was part of the temperance movement. The name of the Order was inspired by the Rechabites, who feature in the 35th Chapter of Jeremiah. The founders of the Order were concerned that many friendly societies met in public houses and their members were therefore vulnerable to the temptations of alcohol. The Order spread around the world. There were branches in New Zealand, Australia, the United States and India. Branches were known as 'tents' and presided over by High Chief Rulers, who were assisted by Inside and Outside Guardians, a Levite of the Tent and a group of Elders. Before joining the Order, a prospective member had to sign a pledge that they and their family would abstain from alcohol.Certificate, issued by Independent Order of Rechabites (IOR) to Greta Thomas - patriotic pledge to abstain from alcohol. Cardboard, coloured front, picture of Kitchener of Khartoum, banner Patriotic Pledge, flagsior, temperance, reta thomas, friendly society, rechabites