The R.A.O.B
Who? Why? Where? When?

The R.A.O.B
The Royal Antediluvian Order of Buffaloes founded in the 1820's is a Charitable Organisation which is active, not only in it's local community, but, at all levels of Society. It is a non-political, nor does it look to religion to inspire participation. It, does, however, inspire members to commit to a peaceful and meaningful way of life. It is often described as an extended family, a social organisation or a mutually supportive group of like-minded people; each true in its own way, they do not adequately describe the true picture: that is painted on a much larger canvas.

The Members
The image we would wish to present is of a group, who, by their works, encourage members of the community to lead satisfying and enjoyable lives and who provide our members with a sense of belonging. Tangible assistance is provided when needed. Importantly this support is not dependent on what an individual puts in rather by what is needed.
The R.A.O.B. at all levels support its community and, through its charitable works, raises many millions of pounds for most worthwhile causes, for too many to list, all chosen by the membership locally, regionally or nationally. The range of charities we support is very wide as are the internal funds we have for use for our members in times of difficulty or need.
The support we provide for our own lodge members and their families is augmented by a comprehensive range of benevolent funds administered by Grand Lodge and includes educational grants. Aged members and windows of deceased Brethren benefit from our annuities or special grants. We are particularly proud of the system which has been established to provide care for windows with young children. Funded entirely by voluntary contributions they receive Birthday and Christmas gifts, family holidays, pocket money and savings. In short we do our best to fill the material gap left but the husband and father they have lost. As long as the need exists our assistance continues. We are not a secret organisation, our rules and ceremonies are in the public domain. Our Order is steeped in history, much more information is available but to go in too deep at this stage would only serve to confuse. Membership is for life and members can be as active as they wish at whichever level they choose. All that is required is that you are a member of a Lodge; further progress is in the hands of the individual as is the frequency of his attendance in his lodge.

The Minor Lodge
The Minor Lodge is the cornerstone around which the Order is built. First and foremost we are all members of our own Minor Lodge. Brothers can, if they wish, belong to more than one lodge; all Brothers must be part of a Lodge. The majority of Lodges meet weekly; though some meet fortnightly or monthly if needs dictate. Each Minor Lodge supports its members and the community at a local level.

The Provincial Grand Lodge
A Provincial Grand Lodge collectively administers a group of lodges known as a Province. Members who have chosen to be active at this level and have proven their knowledge of the rules and procedures attend the P.G.L to carry out. P.G.L meets once a month.

Grand Lodge
Grand Lodge is made up of delegates from Provincial Grand Lodges and administers the Order nationally. Grand Lodge runs and maintains the Convalescent Homes owned by the Order and supports the community as a whole. The degree of participation at any level is entirely voluntary and at the discretion of each individual Brother. Many confine their activities to their own Minor Lodge and do not seek advancement. There is no stigma attached to anyone who does not wish to become active at Provincial Grand Lodge or Grand Lodge

Already a Member?
Has our web site given you a prompt for you to return to a Lodge? Please consider the future in the Order rather than the past. Ask the person who put you on to this web site or contact the City Secretary to go with you to a Lodge or suggest a Lodge that is more local and convenient to you, remember he can be the link to your return.

How Do I Find Out More?
If after reading our web site you have questions about the Order, feel free to contact the City Secretary, or any other brethren of the Carnation Lodge 5723. Not only can they tell you more about our organisation, but they can tell you where there is a Lodge close by and at a time that may be suitable for you. Alternatively you can telephone our Headquarters and ask to speak to someone about further information on the Order, or you can visit our Grand Lodge Web site

Give it a go ~ You might enjoy it

www.raobgle.org.uk

The R.A.O.B. Grand Lodge of England
Grove House, Skipton Road, Harrogate.
North Yorkshire HG1 4LA