Historical information

This stamp was used by an Independent Order of Oddfellows organization – the Loyal Warrnambool Lodge. The Independent Order of Oddfellows is a benefit society, founded in the U.S.A., offering medical and employment benefits for its members. Its motto is ‘Friendship, Love, Truth’. A branch was first established in Melbourne in 1846 and the Loyal Victoria Lodge of the Independent Order of Oddfellows was established in Warrnambool in 1860. The Oddfellows Hall in Warrnambool (building still existing) opened in 1869. It is likely that the Loyal Warrnambool Lodge has been established from this original Loyal Victoria Lodge.

Significance

This stamp is of interest as it has been used by the Loyal Warrnambool Lodge of the Independent Order of Oddfellows. Benefit societies such as this one have been influential and important in the social and economic history of Warrnambool.

Physical description

This is a stamp for the Loyal Warrnambool Lodge of the Independent Order of Oddfellows. It has a circular wooden handle, a metal base and a round rubber stamp

Inscriptions & markings

Loyal Warrnambool Lodge,Warrnambool
I.O.O.F., No 181
F.L.T.