The Odd Fellows Hall, an outstanding example of late-19th-century commercial design, occupies the most architecturally distinguished commercial block in Central Square. The Odd Fellows, with roots in 17th-century England, is a fraternal organization that was created to help the poor and improve the conditions of all people. It was the first such American group to offer its members financial assistance for the care of the sick, needy, orphans, and the burial of deceased members. Today, retail stores occupy the ground floor, with the Dance Complex above.

Historic image: B. Orr photograph, Cambridge Historical Commission, taken between 1966 and 1968

Photograph: Phyllis Bretholtz, 2010

“Central Square: Then and Now” portrays the history and vibrancy of Central Square over the past century. The project is a collaboration of the Clear Conscience Café, the Cambridge Historical Society, the Cambridge Historical Commission, and Phyllis Bretholtz.