Freemasons, Friendly Societies and Trade Unions: A Guide for Family Historians

Fraternal and friendly societies and trade unions have a long history, with the Freemasons being the most famous. This handbook dispels myths and provides insight into their purposes, membership, and development over the centuries. It also includes a comprehensive compendium of books, archives, libraries, and internet sites to help readers and researchers learn more. The origins, economic, social, and civic functions, and impact of these societies on individuals who joined them are explored.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 30 April 2019
Publisher: Pen & Sword Books Ltd

Fraternal and friendly societies, as well as trade unions, are organizations that provide mutual aid and benefits to their members. These societies have a rich history, with some of the most famous ones, such as the Freemasons, known for their secrecy, rituals, and intrigue. In his handbook, Daniel Weinbren aims to dispel the myths surrounding these organizations and provide readers with an insight into their real purposes, membership, and development over the centuries.

The book includes a comprehensive compendium of books, archives, libraries, and internet sites that readers and researchers can consult to learn more about these organizations and trace the involvement and experience of family members who were connected with them. The origins of these societies are explored, as well as their economic, social, and civic functions and the impact they had on the lives of individuals who joined them. The range of societies covered includes popular and international ones such as the Oddfellows, Foresters, and Rechabites, as well as smaller local fraternal organizations.

The book provides detailed descriptions and explanations of the assistance these societies offer, their structure and hierarchy, meetings and ceremonies, regalia and processions, and feasts and annual gatherings. It is evident that a lot of information about these organizations and their membership is readily available if one knows where to look. Weinbren's work is an ideal introduction to these societies, particularly for anyone with a forebear who was at some time linked with one of them. The book will serve as an essential guide to their research.

Weight: 444g
Dimension: 230 x 155 x 12 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781526710338