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The confusing part of my research on Fraternalism is my continual encountering of statements like, "The Order's ceremonies and rituals are similar to the Mason's" or that the "Founder of the Order was/is a Mason". The majority, and certainly most of the major Fraternal orders, were founded by a Mason(s). However, the information almost never indicates whether or not the order has remained Masonic. As the Freemason's have been around longer than most of the other organizations, it seems only logical that many of the newer Order's patterned their structure after this successful group. What is 'Illuminating' (a Mason & Illuminati term) is that many of the members of these societies belonged to several organizations simultaneously...both Masonic & non Masonic. Joseph Cullen (more later) a 33° Mason, also held membership in Knights Templar, the Knights of Pythias, Ancient Order of United Workmen & Mechanics and the Odd Fellows, to name a few. He didn't stop there...Mr. Cullen went on to start 4 Fraternal organizations of his own (all non Masonic), including the "Modern Woodmen of America" . Please bear with me as I try to identify as many of these organizations, as accurately as possible. I believe that the organizations and images in this group (with a few exceptions, e.g. when there is more than one group represented in the image) are neither Masonic nor Masonic related but if you can correct or add info to my classification...it would be appreciated.
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