History & Purpose

The Order of Reddere was established as a civic honour society devoted to the principle of reddere—Latin for “to give back.” It exists to celebrate, elevate, and affirm those whose lives are marked by service, selflessness, and contribution to public and civic good. Its focus is not on fame or status, but on honouring those who act with integrity, often without recognition.

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The origins of the Order are inspired by a quiet yet profound tradition rooted in the records of parish life. In the late 18th century, following the reforms of the Yorkshire clergyman Rev. William Dade, a new standard of parish record-keeping emerged. Dade introduced what became known as the Dade Registers—expanded entries that went beyond names and dates, capturing the stories, virtues, and lived character of individuals recorded at birth, marriage, and death.

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In this tradition, parish clerks—often of humble station themselves—began to inscribe short tributes into the margins of their registers. These were not grand epitaphs or public declarations, but quiet acknowledgements of kindness, faithfulness, or quiet duty. In a time before newspapers or honours lists, such notes became the only enduring memorial for many lives of silent goodness. They offer us today a remarkable legacy: that even the smallest acts of dignity and service deserve remembrance.​

​The Order of Reddere was founded to carry forward this very legacy. We do not confer nobility in law, but dignity in remembrance. Through our ceremonial structure, symbolic regalia, and our sacred Book of Deeds, we inscribe the names of the living—not in bureaucracy, but in honour. We affirm that character, not title, is the highest mark of a person. To serve others, to give without expectation, and to lift others with humility—these are the traits we believe worthy of celebration.

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The Order is governed by a formal Constitution, adopted on 8th April 2025. It defines the ceremonial structure, ranks, and rules by which members are admitted, advanced, and entrusted with responsibility. The Constitution also affirms the Order’s commitment to ethical governance, charitable support, and transparency. Membership is maintained through a civic society model: annual subscription supports the administration, events, charitable aims, and production of ceremonial materials. Members are encouraged to remain active within the Order and are invited to take part in its ceremonies, events, and public works.

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Our motto, “To Give Back is to Honour,” is not just a phrase—it is a principle. Whether through acts of service, leadership, community care, or simply quiet, enduring support to others, the Order of Reddere honours the timeless truth that real nobility is not inherited—it is lived.