“Mystery and Benevolence: Masonic and Odd Fellows Folk Art” debuts at The Historic New Orleans Collection Feb. 16
A TOURING EXHIBITION FROM THE AMERICAN FOLK ART MUSEUM EXPLORES SECRET SOCIETIES AND FRATERNAL BROTHERHOODS
Artists unidentified, Independent Order of Odd Fellows Heart in Hands Staffs (detail), 1850–1900, Paint and gold leaf on wood, American Folk Art Museum, Gift of Kendra and Allen Daniel, Photograph by José Andrés Ramírez.
NEW ORLEANS — Step into the mysterious domain of secret societies in the riveting exhibition "Mystery and Benevolence: Masonic and Odd Fellows Folk Art,” on view Feb. 16 through May 10 at The Historic New Orleans Collection (THNOC). Curated by New York City’s American Folk Art Museum, this captivating showcase presents more than 80 intriguing objects that delve into the enigmatic art of two prominent fraternal brotherhoods: the Freemasons and the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, which have deep historical roots in America.
Drawing inspiration from the golden age of American fraternal societies, "Mystery and Benevolence” unveils the hidden histories and arcane symbolism embedded within these social orders. From ceremonial regalia adorned with cryptic symbols to intricately carved staffs exuding an air of mysticism, each artifact tells a tale that is simultaneously familiar and uncommon.
The roots of Freemasonry can be traced to the 16th century in the British Isles, where stonemasons and craftsmen formed guilds to provide shelter and fellowship to their itinerant members (hence the prominence of aprons, squares and compasses in the orders' regalia). By 1900, up to 40% of American men were members of at least one fraternal order, including the Freemasons and the Odd Fellows. Other similar groups, such as the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks and the Knights of Pythias, also experienced a surge in membership. Although participation in these societies declined after World War II, they continue to exist today, driven by their commitment to fostering friendship, understanding, and a mission of charity, education and goodwill.
“The strange and beautifully crafted objects displayed in ‘Mystery and Benevolence’ provide us with a rare glimpse into the histories and rituals of these fraternal orders,” said Jason Wiese, THNOC chief curator. “While the text labels accompanying each object provide historical context, visitors are invited to decipher the hidden messages and unravel the mysteries presented in this exhibition—an immersive experience into a world few have had the privilege to enter.”
Complementing this exhibition is the THNOC-curated "A Mystic Brotherhood: Fraternal Orders of New Orleans,” which explores how local chapters of fraternal organizations have shaped our city's history, culture and civic life. Both exhibitions will be on view through May 10 at THNOC’s Tricentennial Wing at 520 Royal St. The exhibition is sponsored locally by the 2024 Bienville Circle. WWL-TV is media partner.
“Mystery and Benevolence” was organized by the American Folk Art Museum, New York, from the Kendra and Allan Daniel Collection and is toured by International Arts & Artists, Washington, DC.
Admission is free. Advance reservations are recommended. For more information and to reserve tickets, visit hnoc.org.
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About The Historic New Orleans Collection
Founded in 1966, The Historic New Orleans Collection is a museum, research center and publisher dedicated to the stewardship of the history and culture of New Orleans and the Gulf South. For more information, visit www.hnoc.org, call (504) 523-4662, or follow THNOC on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.