Organizational history of Imperial Order Daughters of the Empire
The Imperial Order of Daughters of the Empire was established by Margaret Murray of Montreal, Quebec in 1900 to promote patriotism, loyalty and service to others. The first chapter was formed in Fredericton, New Brunswick, in 1900. The formation of other chapters quickly followed across the country and the formation of a national organization was established on 13 February 1900. In 1901, the Head Office was founded in Toronto, Ontario and the federation was incorporated as Imperial Order Daughters of the Empire and Children of the Empire. The initial impetus behind the creation of the IODE was a concern for the welfare of soldiers of the Empire in active duty particularly in the South African War (Boer War). Activities included the creation of care packages of clothes and socks to be sent overseas and local fund raising activities to raise money in support of local and national war efforts. These early activities helped prepare the Order for the increased needs in charitable work during World War I. The IODE was first organized in Manitoba in 1909. Five chapters were chartered that year, three in Winnipeg and one each in Brandon and Portage la Prairie. In the coming years the Manitoba Chapters created a Soldiers' Convalescent home for returning soldiers. They also provided support to the families of soldiers lost in the war and established memorials for fallen comrades.
