A Tribute to Thomas

Following Thomas' death, the International Order of Odd Fellows (IOOF) published a tribute to Thomas, their well-loved brother.

The part that is most touching to me is the statement that "he was a devoted friend, a kind and affectionate father, and loving Husband, and in all these relations he will long be remembered by those who know him best."

As much as I know about Thomas, I long to know more. For instance,

• Since he died of cirrhosis of the liver, was he an alcoholic? How did drinking impact his life or the lives of those around him?
• He was growing award-winning potatoes a year before his death. How long before his death were his physical abilities impacted?
• How did he feel about his son-in-law, John Cronin, husband of his daughter, Lucy?
• Did his younger children have positive relationships with his grandchildren who were close in age?
• What gave him his greatest joy -- wife, children, grandchildren, friendships?

My siblings and I frequently comment that we'd love to have one more day with our Dad who died too soon at the age of 57. Although I spend a considerable about of time trying to uncover the everyday lives of my ancestors, I count Thomas among the many with whom I'd love to spend a day. Which one of your ancestors would you most like the chance to spend one more day with?

Thomas Probert Was an Odd Fellow

I recall a conversation with a cousin who shares Thomas as a gg-grandfather. She wondered why Thomas' obituary described him as an "Odd Fellow." As I was familiar with the fraternal organization, I was amused. But it occurred to me that many of my contemporaries may not be familiar with the "Independent Order of Odd Fellows." 

The Odd Fellows are a fraternal organization. To quote their mission, 

Lodge degrees and activities aim to improve and elevate every person to a higher, nobler plane; to extend sympathy and aid to those in need, making their burdens lighter, relieving the darkness of despair; to war against vice in every form, and to be a great moral power and influence for the good of humanity. For members, the degrees in Odd Fellowship emphasizes a leaving of the old life and the start of a better one, of welcoming travelers, and of helping those in need. The command of the IOOF is to"visit the sick, relieve the distressed, bury the dead and educate the orphan." 

Thomas Probert was part of a group of men in Mt. Sterling who formed the Sterling Lodge #11 in Mt. Sterling. Thomas was one of the initial officers, serving as the lodge's Sentinel.

As I tried to discover other activities of the Sterling Lodge, I was surprised to find this newspaper article.

See below for transcription.

Transcription: Mt. Sterling Sentinel, December 24, 1864  Caned J.D. Trapp, Esq. Lexington, Grand Master of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows of Kentucky was severely caned in this place on Friday evening last. The affair occurred in Hoffman and Co. store, and Mr. Trapp on one side and Messrs. William Hoffmann and T.H. Probert on the other side were the principal actors. The cane used was of ebony, with a beautiful gold head upon it, and we understand cost ninety dollars.  Bro. Trapp's conduct, while here richly merited the caning, and we were glad to notice that he submitted with very good grace. In the language of "Old Probe", there were no "philanthropic remarks" made.  

And in another story---The supper prepared by the indefatigable Probert would have done credit to Delmonico. The tables fairly groaned under the weight of the good things. Taking it all and all, it was a most delightful entertainment one of those "nights of undecaying joy," which form a pleasant memory in after days -- an oasis in the desert of man's existence. May we have many more such.

OK -- I need some help. This "party" was on Christmas Eve. I understand the wonderful dinner and Thomas' part in its preparation, but can someone please explain to me how "caning" could be a part of the activities of the Odd Fellows? I am at a loss -- especially since this was the Grand Master.

The Odd Fellows would continue to play an important role in the social life of Thomas as well as in the well-being of his wife following his death. So now you know why so many cemeteries have a link to the International Order of Odd Fellows.