Patriarchs Militant Fraternal Order Sword Odd Fellows 1880’s (Circa)
Named - Maj. J. O. Clarke
(On blade and scabbard)
Mfg. by M. C. Lilley & Co. Columbus Ohio
Overall length 35”
Blade length 28”
The Patriarchs Militant – A Noble Arm of Odd Fellowship
The Patriarchs Militant (PM), a is the highest branch in the Independent Order of Odd Fellows.
The Patriarchs Militant was first organized by members of the Encampment who were military men and civil war veterans and was officially adopted as a separate branch of the fraternity in 1885. Later, the Rebekahs also formed the Ladies Auxiliary Patriarchs Militant for women.
Patriarchs Militant (PM) is Odd Fellowship’s uniformed branch. The name “Patriarchs Militant” conveys the two-fold idea of peace and soldierly valor. It is semi-military in character, organized for chivalric display in parades, honor guards, and ceremonial events. The branch admirably fulfills its mission through significant traditions, such as the annual ‘Tomb of the Unknown Soldiers’ ceremony held in Washington, DC, and Canada.
Membership in the Patriarchs Militant requires holding the Royal Purple Degree, the highest degree of the IOOF Encampment branch. This ensures that members have demonstrated their commitment to the core values of Odd Fellowship—friendship, love, and truth—through a deeper understanding of the Order’s teachings and traditions.
The Patriarchs Militant has one singular degree, known as the Chevalier Degree. Upon completing this degree, members earn the privilege to hold office within their local unit, called a Canton. The term "Canton" reflects the structured and organized nature of this branch, drawing from its military-inspired traditions. Each Canton serves as a hub for fellowship, ceremonial activities, and community service, fostering unity and purpose among its members.
Members of the Patriarchs Militant are committed to serving humanity and upholding the values of friendship, love, and truth. Through ceremonial traditions and active participation in charitable efforts, the Patriarchs Militant honor the legacy of Odd Fellowship, fostering unity and goodwill across communities.
With a focus on discipline, dignity, and duty, the Patriarchs Militant inspires its members to lead by example, demonstrating the strength of collective purpose and the enduring importance of service to others.
