Odd Fellows Building

The Independent Order of Oddfellows (IOOF) discontinued operation of its orphanage at the North Main Street location in 1972. However, IOOF members still wished for the building to serve its greater purpose of providing support for children.

Although the Odd Fellows building has not operated as an orphanage for over 50 years, many local residents still associate it with this function. This is entirely justified, for the structure played a prominent role in the lives of “misfortunate children” (an old term for orphans) in the region for nearly 100 years.

Many in Meadville are aware of the imposing Odd Fellows building, from being involved with an organization there to simply driving by its prominent location on North Main Street. Some may even be familiar with its history as an orphanage, though that activity was discontinued decades ago. But, why “Odd Fellows?” After learning about this “oddness,” I felt it important to share these findings here and I think you will understand why