This marquetry table was made by James J. Crozier in 1933; the name and date are inscribed in pencil on the underside of the tabletop. Crozier lived in Islip, New York, where he worked as a carpenter. The marquetry surface features a number of fraternal symbols, but it is the prominent letters “FLT” and “IOOF” and the three-link chain that mark this as an Odd Fellows object. The initials for “Friendship,” “Love,” and “Truth” served to remind lodge members of the ritual teachings from the Initiatory Degree: like the chain, they were bound together in those virtues. The all-seeing eye symbolizes the omniscience of God, and the heart in hand signifies candor and sincerity. 

Two metal plaques are attached to the bottom of the tabletop. One reads “1819 to 1919 / 100 IOOF YRS,” commemorating the American branch’s centennial. The other is stamped “Made and presented by / James J. Grozier [Crozier] P.D.D.G.M. / to I.O.O.F. G.L. Home 1939/thru. G.M. F.L. Garrano.” The initials indicate that Crozier was a Past District Deputy Grand Master, meaning that he had served as the Grand Master’s representative to a particular region of his state, and that he presented the table to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows Grand Lodge Home through a Grand Master.

Stacy C. Hollander, “Independent Order of Odd Fellows Marquetry Table," exhibition label for Mystery and Benevolence: Masonic and Odd Fellows Folk Art from the Kendra and Allan Daniel Collection. Stacy C. Hollander, curator. New York: American Folk Art Museum, 2016.

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