SAVING OUR HISTORY

In March of this 2015, a heavy snowstorm caused a collapse of the roof of the Historic Odd Fellows Building. This particular Odd Fellows Chapter is unique as it became home to the Grand United Order of Odd Fellows Washington Lodge #1513 in 1886. This organization was founded by Former slaves in 1872 just following the end of the Civil War. This lodge is the only remaining active Grand United Order of Odd Fellows Lodge in Kentucky and possibly the oldest African American fraternal organization in the state.

For more information please contact New Castle Main Street Manager Jeff Thoke at 502-645-5421, New Castle Preservation Board Chairman Joe Yates at 502-845-4441, President of Odd Fellows Washington Lodge #1513 Richard Smith at 502-330-4908, or Friend of the Odd Fellows Sandra Smith at 502-232-0929.

The wall is now stabilized, the building is under cover, but plenty of work remains.  In the meanwhile there is now in place a historical marker at the sidewalk right in front of the building. Thanks to all that made this possible and continue to preserve our history.