Mystery & Benevolence: Masonic and Odd Fellows Folk Art

February 1–May 11, 2025 | Fifth Third Gallery

Through compelling and cryptic works of art, Mystery & Benevolence brings to light the histories, symbolism, and beliefs of the Freemasons and the Independent Order of the Odd Fellows (IOOF)—two fraternal organizations with deep roots in American history. For decades, members across the country have come together to socialize, help others, and improve themselves and their communities. The exhibition features more than eighty works of art, including items once owned by the Daughters of Rebekah—the first lodge to include women—and the Grand United Order of Odd Fellows, founded as the African American counterpart to the IOOF. Sculptures, textiles, regalia, prints, and works of decorative art explore the main principles of the organizations: fellowship, charity, labor, passage, and wisdom. Elaborately stitched costumes, gilded regalia and jewelry, and richly embellished ceremonial objects provide a glimpse into the enigmatic world of these secret societies.

Mystery and Benevolence is organized by the American Folk Art Museum, New York, NY, from the Kendra and Allan Daniel Collection and toured by International Arts & Artists, Washington, DC.

DAILY ADMISSION FREE SUNDAYS & MONDAYS

Admission is free for Taft members, guests of members with guest pass, military, and youth (17 and under); $15 for adults; $12 for seniors. Includes admission to special exhibitions and the museum’s collection galleries. Sundays and Mondays are FREE!

Experience the Exhibition

Enjoy special tours, behind-the-scenes insights, and more during this unique exhibition!

Reason Bell Crafft (American, 1812–1873), Masonic Master Mason Apron, detail, 1855–1865, ink, paint, and gold paint on leather, with silk binding. Collection American Folk Art Museum, New York, Gift of Kendra and Allan Daniel, Photo by José Andrés Ramírez

Tour | Cincinnati Masonic Center

Thursday, March 13 | SOLD OUT
Wednesday, March 19 | NEWLY ADDED

11 a.m.–12 p.m.

317 East Fifth Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202

Join us for a tour of the Cincinnati Masonic Center, home of the Valley of Cincinnati, local branch of Freemasonry. The building also includes the Taft Theatre, named in honor of Taft Museum of Art co-founder Charles Phelps Taft, who belonged to a Cincinnati lodge. Designed by architect Harry Haike, the building houses seven meeting spaces, two auditoriums, four dining rooms and a ballroom. This tour will view Freemasonry through both a historical and contemporary lens, providing insight into the impact this fraternal organization has had on the city, and still has today.

GET TICKETS

Questions? Contact education@taftmuseum.org.

Independent Order of Odd Fellows Sword with Scales, detail, 1850–1900, paint and gold leaf on wood, with metal. Collection American Folk Art Museum, New York, Gift of Kendra and Allan Daniel, Photo by José Andrés Ramírez

SOLD OUT | Tour | Spring Grove Cemetery: The Odd Fellows Tour (Tram)

Sunday, April 6

1–3 p.m.

4521 Spring Grove Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45232

This tour will introduce the history of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, the second largest fraternal organization in 19th-century America, and provide insights into their philosophies and practices. Meet some of the many Odd Fellows interred in Spring Grove and gain insight into life and death in the 19th century.

$15 for Taft members, $20 for non-members. Registration is required and limited to 24 participants.

Questions? Contact education@taftmuseum.org.

Mystery & Benevolence is organized by the American Folk Art Museum, New York, NY, from the Kendra and Allan Daniel Collection and toured by International Arts & Artists, Washington, DC.