The order of the Sons of Temperance originated in the city of New York in the year 1842. It is a benefit
society, modeled after the order of Odd Fellows, with the addition of a total abstinence pledge and a
system of discipline adapted to it. The exception, that there are fourteen degrees in the order of Odd
Fellows but only one in the society of the Sons of Temperance. The Sons of Temperance have no mysteries,
ceremonies, or secrets, with which every member is not made acquainted when he is initiated. Meetings are
held weekly, and the officers elected for only three months. The members pay weekly or quarterly dues
and are paid a weekly allowance or benefit when sick or infirm, provided their sickness or infirmity is not
produced by misconduct after they become members. They have standing committees to attend to the sick,
and a regular system of discipline. The amount of their quarterly dues, the amount of benefits, and the sum
appropriated for funeral expenses on the decease of a member, depends on the by-laws of each division,
subject to certain limitations.
Source:
Essays on the Progress of Nations in Civilization
Ezra Champion Seaman 1868
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