Already on the land was the Sisters of Mercy convent and school, on South Street, and the York Mechanic's Institute on Avon Terrace (where the Town Hall is now situated).

The property was acquired by a syndicate taking advantage of the railway extension, comprising Stephen Parker, James Grave and Maitland Broun.

The meetings were on the closest Thursday evening to the full moon so members could make their way home with little difficulty in the dark.

[11] The building had two storeys, consisting of a public hall available for hire below and lodge meeting rooms above.

"The building is a credit to the town and speaks well for the enterprising spirit of the Oddfellows of the district and the skill of the builder.

[14] The Freemasons replaced the window above the door with their own symbols and removed the word "ODDFELLOWS" from the name of the building.