|
Activity
|
Friendly societies were in existence in the 17th century but reached their peak in the 19th century. They were originally organisations that provided a mechanism for ordinary people to save or make provision for infirmity, old age, death or burial and are mutual benefit societies owned by their members. They were encouraged by the Registration of Friendly Societies Act 1793 (33 Geo. III, c.54). The Friendly Societies Act 1855 (18 & 19 Vict., c.63) established the Registrar of Friendly Societies. Some friendly societies also acted as social clubs and organisations and included the Free Gardeners, Oddfellows and Shepherds Friendly Society.The Ancient Order Of Foresters, Court Drumpellier Olive No 6139 was a Coatbridge branch of a nationwide friendly society utilising the romanticised theme of the ancient craft of the forester for its office bearers and public image. The Foresters Friendly Society is one of Britain?s oldest and largest branch based friendly societies. It developed from the meetings of an earlier organisation, The Royal Foresters, with the first Court, Court No 1 in Leeds, being established in 1790. Like all friendly societies its primary function was to provide sickness benefits for its members. Court Drumpellier Olive No 6139 was founded in 1875. It remained in existence until at least 1955. In 1923 a junior branch of the society was instituted called the Coatbridge Juvenile Foresters Society.
|