Independent Order of Odd Fellows No. 40
Although the I.O.O.F organization was founded in 1849, the building standing today was built in 1868 for $3,000. (The Masonic Lodge right across the street was also constructed in 1868). Meetings were held upstairs from 1868 to 1927. The downstairs was rented out to various commercial interests including a newspaper.
The Odd Fellows organization was started in England by working-class men for social activities, for giving aid in finding work, and in providing for a member’s family at time of illness or death (much like insurance and social welfare programs of today). Their motto is “Friendship, Love, and Truth” as symbolized in three links of a chain.
The Arrow Rock Lodge was known for its winter oyster supper and summer fish fry. Missouri artist George Caleb Bingham was a member.
The Lodge Hall upstairs is furnished by the Grand Lodge of Missouri-I.O.O.F. The downstairs houses a collection of early printing equipment owned by the Missouri Press Foundation.
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