The Royal Antediluvian Order of Buffaloes (RAOB) is one of the largest fraternal movements in the United Kingdom, The order started in 1822 and has since spread throughout the former British Empire and elsewhere in the world. It is known as the "Buffs" to members. Coverage Buffalo Lodges have existed widely throughout the former British Empire. Buffalo lodges have also existed in other countries not associated with the empire or its successor the Commonwealth of Nations such as the United States of America. Lodges have existed on board ships, at army bases, and Royal Air Force bases. Bletchley Park had a lodge at its local pub. Most of the post-Second World War West German Lodges were related to the British Forces. In the United Kingdom hundreds of pubs have been home to Buffalo Lodges. The largest Buffalo order in history, based purely on the number of dispensations issued, is the Grand Lodge of England (the Birmingham section). The GLE has issued over 10,672 "dispensations" to establish lodges in England, Wales, Scotland, Ireland, and other places around the world. There are still a number of lodges worldwide that come under the Grand Lodge of England directly, such as Eastern Lodge 8686 in Nova Scotia. Membership There are two types of banners in the RAOB movement: the "affiliated" orders and independents. Membership within the affiliated orders requires that a man must be 18 years of age or over and must be a "True and Loyal Supporter of the British Crown and Constitution". There are Buffalo lodges which do not come under the affiliated orders and that have different requirements. Lodges of the RAOB that have been set up in countries such as the United States have amended their rules to simply require that a prospective member be a "True and Loyal Supporter of the Constitution" of the country in which they operate. The Buffalo lodge is a fun fraternity in which men of any religious or political views are allowed to join. Discussion of politics and religion are forbidden from meetings. The standard of dress is usually a shirt and tie, coat or jacket, and dress pants. The Lodge is structured like an "Ancient City". The chief officer is called the Worthy Primo, and subordinate officers, as city officers. Officers wear chain collar regalia, whilst individual members have their own regalia or medals, known as jewels. Meetings are begun when members are