About Roseville Odd Fellows Lodge #203
Roseville Odd Fellows Lodge #203 is a local lodge of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, bringing people together through friendship, fellowship, and service. Guided by the principles of Friendship, Love, and Truth, the lodge supports charitable efforts and community involvement in Roseville and the surrounding area.
Who Are the Odd Fellows?
The Independent Order of Odd Fellows (IOOF) is a longstanding fraternal organization dedicated to friendship, mutual support, and helping others. Its members come together through local lodges to build meaningful relationships, support charitable causes, and make a positive difference in their communities. Guided by the principles of Friendship, Love, and Truth, the organization encourages members to practice kindness, compassion, and service in everyday life.
Why Are They Called Odd Fellows?
The exact origin of the name “Odd Fellows” is uncertain. One commonly discussed theory suggests that the name originated when people from different trades and backgrounds came together to help one another—an unusual practice at the time. Although the explanation has not been definitively established, the name continues to reflect the organization’s longstanding tradition of fellowship and mutual support.
Our Values: Friendship, Love & Truth
The Odd Fellows are guided by three core principles: Friendship, Love, and Truth. Represented by the organization’s historic three-link chain, these values encourage members to build meaningful relationships, show compassion for others, and act with honesty and integrity. Together, they form the foundation of Odd Fellowship and its commitment to helping others.
What We Do in Roseville
At Roseville Odd Fellows Lodge #203, friendship, love, and truth extend beyond our meetings and into the community. Members work together to support local organizations, contribute to charitable causes, and help individuals facing challenges. Through these efforts, the lodge continues its longstanding commitment to benevolence, charity, and making a positive difference in Roseville and the surrounding communities.
How We Support Our Community
Roseville Odd Fellows Lodge #203 supports its community through charitable contributions and educational assistance. The lodge has supported organizations such as The Salvation Army and Feeding the Foothills, while its ongoing GED Exam Assistance program helps individuals with the cost of taking the GED exam. Applicants submit an essay explaining their circumstances and how the assistance would benefit them. These efforts reflect the lodge’s dedication to using its available resources to help others.
Our History
Roseville Odd Fellows Lodge #203 has a long history in the Roseville community, with roots dating back to the 19th century. Over the years, the lodge has witnessed changes in the city, including its own relocation from an earlier meeting place. Despite these changes, the lodge has continued the Odd Fellows tradition of friendship, mutual support, and service to others.
Historic building associated with Roseville Odd Fellows Lodge #203 in 1878. The lodge later relocated following a change in building ownership.
Roseville Odd Fellows participating in a community parade in 1927.
Notable Odd Fellows in California History
Throughout its history, the Independent Order of Odd Fellows has included individuals who made significant contributions to California’s development, government, and communities. From political leaders to influential figures in education and journalism, these notable members reflect the organization’s longstanding presence in California history.
Leland Stanford
Leland Stanford (1824–1893) was a California governor, U.S. senator, and co-founder of Stanford University. A notable figure in California’s early development, he was also a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows.
Earl Warren
Earl Warren (1891–1974) served as California’s governor from 1943 to 1953 before becoming Chief Justice of the United States Supreme Court. A prominent figure in American legal history, he was also a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows.
Charles de Young
Charles de Young (1845–1880) was a California journalist and co-founder of the San Francisco Chronicle. An influential figure in San Francisco’s early newspaper industry, he was also a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows.
Get to Know Our Lodge
Interested in learning more about Roseville Odd Fellows Lodge #203? Discover how our members come together through friendship, community service, and shared traditions. Whether you’re curious about attending a meeting or becoming a member, we welcome you to learn more about our lodge.