Who we are?
Rooted in Indigenous and African traditions, The Order of the Feather is a rites of passage program, mentoring young men in a fraternity model
Origins
Founded in 1946 as a part of Camp Minisink.
Originated by Daniel Taylor with five founding members:
- Lloyd Bucannan
- George Duvivier
- Rev. Dudley deCosta Cobham
- Herbert Von King
- Rev. Walter Bowen
Brotherhood & Leadership
- Focusing on brotherhood, mentorship, and leadership development.
- Encouraging service, academic excellence, and community engagement.
- Structured into lodges, ensuring growth and sustainability.
- Giwinki
- Wakachanza
- Bonnet
Milestones & Growth
- 1940s: The Order of the Feather was officially founded and the first Feather Pledge Class was initiated; The Order of the Bonnet was created
- 1950s-60s: Expansion of Pledge Clubs and founding of the Feather Chorus.
- 1970s: Strong leadership led to increased independence. Incorporation of African rituals along with traditions of indigenous people from the Americas.
- 1980s: The organization goes into the “dormant period”; no young men join the Feather between 1981 and 1991
- 1990s-2000s: The fraternity was revived after a dormant period.; Rapid expansion with new chapters added to Harlem
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- Brooklyn Chapter (1995)
- Queens Chapter (2003)
- Maryland/DC Metro Chapter (2007)
- Bronx Chapter (2009)
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- 2005: The Daniel Taylor Group is formed to advance our non-profit mission
- 2010s – The Present Day: Hundreds of brothers join the Feather making up the new leadership if the organization
Legacy & Future
With over 75 years of history, the Order of the Feather Fraternity remains committed to leadership, empowerment, and service. Today, brothers across the country continue to honor the traditions set forth by the founders while expanding the fraternity’s impact in modern society.
Community Impact
- A near 80 year history of mentoring young men and fostering leadership
- Strong representation in business, arts, politics, and community service throughout NYC
- Hosting annual events, social gatherings, and leadership programs including
Our Mission Moving Forward
- Uphold our traditions of brotherhood and service.
- Expand outreach to empower the next generation of leaders.
- Continue to build on a legacy of strength, unity, and excellence.
Starting at age 14 young men, and even for those 18 years and older our Fraternity has not neglected the older generation of men that may still want a place to join.