LOYALISTS AND THE L.O.B.A.
Approximately 20 years ago, while searching for United Empire Loyalist ancestors, I discovered a second cousin who was the Grand Mistress of the Ladies' Orange Benevolent Association of Canada (L.O.B.A.). Early Orange Lodges for women, like those of men, were made up of Irish immigrants, however, they quickly absorbed English, Scottish, and German immigrants, including many of United Empire Loyalist descent. The L.O.B.A. was formed in 1894, with the first Lodge established in Hamilton, Ontario. Front of Banner of L.O.B.A 542 Pictured above is the Banner which was used by L.O.B.A # 542, one of several Lodges that formerly met in Hamilton, Ontario. The photo was sent to me along with an inquiry I received about the Lodge. It is believed to be approximately 100 years old. In 2021, after several years of research I authored a book of interest to historians and genealogists entitled The L.O.B.A. in Canada . It has lists of ladies Lodges and identifies members....