This book provides a unique history of the Independent United Order of Mechanics Friendly Society from 1847 to 1879. It explores the leadership and culture of this important organization during a critical period in American history. With detailed analysis and fascinating anecdotes, Robinson brings to life one of the most interesting and important fraternal organizations of the 19th century.This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it.This work is in the "public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work.Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.