Original 1885 Independent Order of Odd Fellows (I.O.O.F.) Withdrawal Card issued by Chico Lodge No. 113, Chico, California.

This large, highly ornate Victorian-era document was issued to Hugo Benno Woelfel (surname appears handwritten as Woelfel) after attaining the Initiatory Degree. The document states that he was admitted to the lodge on February 19, 1885 and that Chico Lodge No. 113 had been instituted at Chico, California, on June 5, 1885, by authority of the Right Worthy Grand Lodge of the State of California. The withdrawal certificate itself is dated March 17, 1885. Because the handwritten dates appear internally inconsistent, they are described here exactly as they appear on the document.

The elaborate engraved design is particularly attractive and incorporates numerous early Odd Fellows symbols and allegorical scenes, including the three-link chain, All-Seeing Eye, skull, sun, moon and stars, scales of justice, lamb, beehive, crossed implements, Bible, and the large I.O.O.F. “Friendship, Love, Truth” design along the bottom.

At upper left is the Sovereign Grand Lodge emblem with the inscription “Visit the Sick, Relieve the Distressed, Bury the Dead and Educate the Orphan.” An embossed Chico Lodge No. 113 I.O.O.F. seal remains clearly visible at lower left.

The engraving is credited at bottom “W. H. Dougal, Engr.” Multiple original handwritten signatures are present.

An excellent piece of early California fraternal history from Chico, Butte County, dating to the 1880s.

Condition: Antique condition with substantial original folding/creasing, toning, scattered staining and handling wear. There are small separations/holes at intersections of the old folds and some edge/corner wear. Handwriting is present on the reverse. The engraved imagery remains remarkably sharp and detailed for its age.

Measures approximately 8-1/2 x 11" 

1885

Will be shipped in folded condition via rigid envelope mailer.