The order, known originally as “The Philanthropic Order of True Ivorites.” was established in Wrexham, Wales in 1836 by Thomas Robert Jones (“Gwerfulyn,” 1802-1856). The Ivorites were named after Ifor Hael (Ivor the Generous) who was the patron of Dafydd ap Gwilym, the fourteenth-century poet. They had firm rules for its members regarding morals and behavior and also nurtured the Welsh language. The Order of Ivorites did a great deal towards the fostering of Welsh literature by giving eisteddfod prizes and holding events to encourage and showcase native talent. The Ivorites’ interest centered on the development of Welsh intellectual and moral character, as well as social improvement.

In America, Benjamin Hughes (1824-1900) took such sentiments to heart. He became one of the most important figures in the history of Scranton, Pennsylvania’s Hyde Park section. Hughes was thought of as the father of the American Ivorites, credited with organizing their society in Scranton and was its first American grand president. To all who knew him, he was “more father than friend” admired for his exceptional executive ability and foresight. Thousands profited from his benevolence.

Although no active lodges exist today, local lodges of the Order of Ivorites were actively working throughout the United States into the late 1900s. With the establishment of this honorary Ivorite Award, the North America Wales Foundation commemorates and pays homage to the ideals of our Welsh forebears and seeks to foster that same spirit in our own time.

(Adapted from a 2006 report by William VanBuskirk, who with President-elect John Jones Reinhart, revived the Ivorite tradition.)