The Philanthropic Benefit Society
History of the order
The Philanthropic Benefit Society, established in 1796, was now becoming a powerful organisation and, as the leaders were men of position, they were able to induce most of their friends to join their ranks. On the anniversary day the members turned out in their best style. Each one had his beautiful sash and the club stick, with the orange head and blue ribbon attached. Then at intervals in the long procession, splendid silk banners, each borne by two strong men, were displayed, and the best band in the town or neighbourhood discoursed sweet music. Then followed the splendid repast in the Courthouse, and the long list of toasts, and then the music and dancing closed the day's proceedings. This was Ramsey's first benefit society and, after a long career of 60 years during which it rendered good service, it was found necessary to divide the funds among the few surviving members of this once strong society this order was gone by 1855.