In August 1876, one hundred and fifty 'youths' met at the Odd Fellows Hall in Exeter and, carrying flags and banners, marched, behind a brass band, through the streets of the city
C.J. Follett, Esq. had kindly granted the boys permission to have a 'treat' in the beautiful grounds of Posloe Park. They marched there in style:
"Various athletic and other amusements were provided, and at five o' clock the youths were regaled with tea, cakes, &c., supplied by Messrs Wither and Wright, in a large marquee, The proceedings were kept up with much spirit until dusk.
"The society was formed for youths from the ages of seven to seventeen years, and they are entitled to the following benefits: - Payments in sickness, medical attendance, and a sum of money at death. At the age of eighteen members are drafted into any lodge in the Manchester Unity, the admission fee being paid by this Society."
Charles Follett of Polsloe Park was nephew to William Webb Follett, who had been Exeter's M.P. and twice Solicitor General. Charles seems to have been a worthy philanthropist who was a Mayor of Exeter in the eighteen-seventies.
The 'youths' of our Welfare State don't need to worry about payments in sickness or medical attendance (though the juvenile 'Oddfellows' are still in existence). On the other hand they don't much get to march through Exeter behind a brass band and with flags flying which must have been fun.
Source:The Exeter Flying Post, 23rd August 1876.
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