LODGE FROM 1907 REOPENS:
The Marion lodge on the Independent Order of Odd Fellows (IOOF) is reopening. On September 6th the Marion lodge will once again be serving the Marion community. The IOOF lodge was originally opened in 1907 with 28 charter members. Membership ranks grew to over a hundred members before it folded in 1932. Many of the community and business leaders formed the core of the fellowship. They were joined by area farmers, both blue and white collar workers along with other local merchants. The group contributed to the Marion community by helping those in need as well as being an early example of a local Chamber of Commerce. The Meetings were a good way to network with others and share ideas that helped the community grow. Past members and officers include; P. Wagner, E, Harris, L. Shroufe, C. Morningstar, W. Nelson, W. Phillips, J. Flemming, E. Grice, M. Johnston, W. Kibby, D. Mosher, G. Pifer, along with many more from our communities history.
The roots of the IOOF began in 17th century England. It was odd to find people organized for the purpose of giving aid to those in need and of pursuing projects for the benefit of all mankind. Those who belonged to such an organization were called "Odd Fellows". Odd Fellows are also known as "The Three Link Fraternity" which stands for Friendship, Love and Truth.

The Independent Order of Odd Fellows was founded on the North American Continent in Baltimore, Maryland, on April 26, 1819 when Thomas Wildey and four members of the Order from England instituted Washington Lodge No. 1. This lodge received its charter from Manchester Unity of Odd Fellows in England.

Odd Fellowship became the 1st national fraternity to include both men and women when it adopted the beautiful Rebekah Degree on September 20, 1851. This degree is based on the teachings found in the Holy Bible, and was written by the Honorable Schuyler Colfax who was Vice President of the United States during the period 1868-1873. Odd Fellows and Rebekahs were also the first fraternal organization to establish homes for our senior members and for orphaned children.
The IOOF is a fraternal order dedicated to some very serious principles. We aim to elevate the character of man. We pledge to visit the sick, bury the dead, educate the orphan and relieve the distressed.

Our symbol is three links with F, L and T in them. That stands for Friendship, Love and Truth. These are the foundations of our Order. Odd Fellows and Rebekahs spend over $775 million in relief projects annually. We have lodges in 26 countries.

In Michigan we offer many family oriented programs which include our youth camp. The camp offers approximately 20 acres of wooded property set on beautiful Big Star Lake. The camp has a completely furnished kitchen and dining hall that seats 260 people. RV and Tent Campsites: Most of the 50 shaded sites have water and electricity available. There are some pull through sites. All sites are located amongst the oaks. There are 11 frame cabins with 9 to 11 single beds in each cabin. Community type rest-room and shower building. The camp is available for large or small groups.
The re-formed Artesian Lodge #533 of Marion can be a first responder to those in need. There are many agencies that can help those in need. Most of them will take several days to process the paperwork before they can help. The Odd Fellows can step in quicker and help in the interim. Membership may start at the age of sixteen and is open to anyone. Once a Lodge is established a junior Lodge may be formed for ages eight to eighteen. The Junior Lodge is geared for the kids to learn not only how a democracy in action works, but also teaches them teamwork and how to work out problems.

One of our main goals will be to open a family center for the Marion residents. This will be open to everyone. Many planed activates will be set up for all ages. The center can be supported through arcade games and food vending along with bingo for the adults. We will strive to keep it a safe and clean place for all users. Some of the proposed activated would be a morning coffee senior social time with cards, chess, checkers or other activities. A youth time for arcade games and social gathering. Teen dances, sock hops and square dancing are possibilities. Of course we will need to find a place to rent or lease to start out with.

To stay alive the lodge must raise money through fund raisers and small yearly dues. The funds are saved and used for those in need in our community. Many family oriented activities are sponsored by both lodges that include some of the following; pot lucks, picnics, dances, bowling, swimming, and camping trips to name a few.

The Marion IOOF welcomes all that wish to join and be a part of a truly inspirational fellowship. The Opening meeting will be held on September 6th at the Marion Township hall beginning at 10:00 AM. Anyone wishing to join or wishing more information may call Mark at 1-231-878-9248 or go to IoofMichigan.org or Marion-Ioof.org .