This textile banner is for the Hull Branch of the "Grand Order of Israel" Brotherly Help Lodge, No.19. The lodge was one of many across the UK – 69 in total by 1938
In July 1908 the Grand Order of Israel paraded their banner through Hull as part of a procession of Friendly Societies.
Hull and The Grand Order of Israel
In July 1903, the Hull Hebrew Friendly Society registered with the Chief Registrar of Friendly Societies. In doing so, they became an affiliate Lodge of the Grand Order of Israel.
Anyone hoping to join the society had to be put forward by two existing members (or "Brothers"). They also had to pay a 1-shilling Proposition Fee. A medical officer would examine applicants to check they were fit and eligible for membership.
In June 1920, Hull's annual Church Parade of the Hull and District Friendly Societies Council visited the Hull Western Synagogue on Linnaeus Street. It was the first time they'd ever visited a Hebrew Synagogue.
About the Grand Order of Israel
The Grand Order of Israel was a Jewish self-help society founded in 1900. They set up lodges across the UK, including the one in Hull.
In 1923 they built The Adler House in London, a club and institute named in honour of the Chief Rabbi of the British Empire, Hermann Adler.
