Among the most important institutions woven into the historical community of Cuckfield was the Loyal Order of Oddfellows, a friendly society whose role in Cuckfield life has largely slipped from memory.

A Mutual Lifeline in a Pre-Welfare State Village

Long before the creation of the National Insurance Act or the modern welfare state, friendly societies like the Oddfellows provided a crucial safety net for working people. The Cuckfield branch operated much like a hybrid of social club, insurance fund, and community support service. Members paid small weekly amounts into collective funds - money that, in times of illness, unemployment, or old age, could be drawn upon to keep a household afloat.

Archival materials held at Cuckfield Museum show just how practical and forward-thinking the society was. The branch ran a Savings Bank designed to help members stay solvent during hard times and created dedicated old-age funds so elderly residents could avoid the grim prospect of the workhouse. At a time when one bad harvest, one accident or one bout of illness could spell financial disaster, the Oddfellows were a genuine lifeline.

Faces Behind the Lodge

The Cuckfield branch wasn’t just a benevolent institution, it was a community in the truest sense. Lodge meetings were social occasions, marked by ritual, fellowship and, often, a good meal. The group marched in local processions, supported charitable causes, and honoured the achievements and hardships of its members.

One of the most respected figures in its history was Samuel “Sam” Willett, a local baker who served as lodge secretary for nearly three decades. His meticulous work kept the society running smoothly, and his death in 1902 was widely noted in local newspapers. People like Willett - tradesmen, craftsmen, labourers, were the backbone of the organisation, giving time and care to ensure their neighbours had protection in uncertain times.

Decline and Legacy

As government-run welfare expanded throughout the 20th century, many friendly societies saw membership fall. The Oddfellows’ presence in Cuckfield gradually faded, with records and memorabilia eventually finding their way into local archives. Yet the national Oddfellows organisation continues today, and the principles that shaped the Cuckfield lodge—mutual aid, social connection, and practical support—remain at its core.

A Tradition Worth Remembering

The story of the Cuckfield Oddfellows is a reminder of how ordinary people once came together to provide extraordinary support for one another.

In an age when communities often feel more dispersed than unified, the quiet legacy of Cuckfield’s Oddfellows is a testament to the power of collective kindness.