My idea: a fraternal organization in rural England, very old, primarily but not exclusively for commoners (when that made a difference). I want it to be silly, like the American "Exalted Order of the Goose" or "The Concatenated Order of Hoo-Hoo" (I kid you not). Of course, when you reach the 35th order, then you find out The Truth, but then I'll be making that up.
Just read Freemasonry for Dummies; and I'll see what else I can find, maybe on Odd Fellows. For me, one of the best ways to research something is to read a novel set in the milieu, but whatever I can find . . . if anyone can give suggestions on how to learn more, I'd love to see them. Rumpole inspired me, but he just had one story (that I found).
For The Truth Beyond the Veil, I'll be looking into Druidic practices, or, more likely, modern recreations of Druidic practices.
TIA
Posted by Matt Lust (Member # 3031) on :
some info on knighs templar would be good. Other histories of Militant Catholic orders (though all but the swiss guards are now defunct by the decree of a Pope in the 1970's, the one right before the before John Paul if memory serves)
Posted by mikemunsil (Member # 2109) on :
Many guilds had their own groups as well. You might research guild organizations dating from about 1400 on in western Europe.
How about "The High Order of Flatulent Glassblowers"? That brings some silly (if potentially disgusting) images to mind.
Posted by wbriggs (Member # 2267) on :
Wouldn't that be a low order?
Really, Mike, that's too disgusting. Got any more?
Posted by Johnmac1953 (Member # 3118) on :
We English are awash with groups e.g The Royal Antediluvian Order of Buffaloes. The Order of the Sherwood Forresters. The Order of the Garter. The most secret: Royal Order of Toeclippers. The Grand House of Slightly Bewildered Hosiers. The Order of Vertically Challenged Firemen. The Royal Regiment of Trainspotters (affectionally known as 'the Anoraks'). The Most Esteemed Order of Less than Perfect Gardeners. I cannot finish without mentioning THE most revered group in our modest Kingdom - The Grandest Most Royal Band of One-armed Cymbal Players. Posted by mikemunsil (Member # 2109) on :
Well, the 'high' referred to their typical mental state.
Most Revered Order of Toenail Fungus Inspectors
Posted by Elan (Member # 2442) on :
quote:"The High Order of Flatulent Glassblowers"
Maybe that should be: "the High Order of Flatulent Gasblowers"?
Posted by hoptoad (Member # 2145) on :
Schumacker's Club.. (Reserved for retirees)
AKA: Bunch of old cobblers.
[This message has been edited by hoptoad (edited February 07, 2006).]
