The Royal Antediluvian Order of Buffaloes 

Combe Martin Lodges

The Royal Antediluvian Order of Buffaloes has its earliest verifiable roots in 1822. Records indicate that the first known Lodge was established at the Harp Tavern on London's Great Russell Street, near the Drury Lane Theatre. This Lodge was formed by stagehands and theatre technicians, after they were reportedly deprived of a long-standing privilege previously granted to them by the actors and artists of that era  —raobgle.org.uk.

Published by Combe Martin Village History Project on June 23, 2025 

Last modified on June 23, 2025

License for Use: CC BY-NC-SA|Attribution|Non-Commercial

CMVHP Index | Memories of Old Combmartin 

The R.A.O.B. | Overview 

The attached document, created by the Combe Martin Village History Project (CMVHP), helps to explain the Royal Antediluvian Order of Buffaloes (R.A.O.B.).

Also known as "the Buffs", there have been branches or Lodges in Combe Martin.

The Royal Antediluvian Order of Buffaloes and Freemasonry are both fraternal organisations, yet they are distinct and separate.

The R.A.O.B. continued its charitable work and maintained Lodges from 1822, while the post-1970s period saw a significant reduction in active members, and the closure of many Lodges.

The R.A.O.B. Grand Lodge of England (GLE) still operates, with Lodges remaining active in the UK and internationally, continuing their charitable work.

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