While researching a family line in America, I came across some interesting symbols on the gravestone of some of the deceased family members. I later learnt that these symbols relate to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows.

The Independent Order of Odd Fellows (I.O.O.F) originates in England in the late 17th century and started in America in the early 1800’s. It is believed by some to have been an offshoot of the Free Masons.

IOOD

IOOF are a religiously and politically independent fraternal order and similarly to the Masons, they have their own symbols and secrets. The Three linked chain is one of the most commonly seen and symbolizes their motto ‘Friendship, Love and Truth’. However unlike the Masons, women are accepted into the order.

Symbols for female members are often depicted with a moon and a dove. The Moon is a symbol of death, rebirth, or victory. A moon with seven stars, the letter “R”, and a dove symbolizes that the deceased was a member of the Daughters of Rebekah, an auxiliary of the I.O.O.F. fraternal organization.

The symbol to the left on the male gravestone is similar to the Ancient Arabic Order of the Nobles of the Mystic Shrine. Sometimes known as ‘Shriners’ they are members of the Masonic Order and adhere to the principles of Freemasonry Brotherly Love, Relief and Truth.

Shriner

Some of other symbols of the male gravestone indicates that he was a Veteran and members of the U.S American Legion.