Fraternal order

A fraternal order is a fraternity organised as an order. Traits sometimes allude to aspects of the original religious or chivalric orders of the Middle Ages. Contemporary fraternal orders typically have secular purposes, including social, cultural and mutually beneficial or charitable aims.

A fraternal order may be organised by a Grand Master and divided geographically by or provinces. Internal member activities may or may not be related to those concerned in phaleristics.

Notable earlier examples include Freemasons and Odd Fellows, both emerging in the 18th century in the United Kingdom and the United States, as is the case with multiple orders comparable with friendly societies, benefit societies and mutual organisations. Prominent more modern-time examples include the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, the Independent Order of Foresters and the Loyal Order of Moose. Some may line with ethnic or religious affiliations, such as Ancient Order of Hibernians or Order of Alhambra for Irish Catholics, or the Orange Order for Irish Protestants. Others may be associated with professions, like the Fraternal Order of Police, while yet others are focused on academic traditions.

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