Just a year ago, Little Compton's Independent Order of Odd Fellows was down to three members. But a after a growth-filled 2025, a revived Seaconnet Lounge #39 threw its first Christmas party in 40 years this week.

The Sunday, Dec. 14 party was rather intimate, taking place during the Patriots' afternoon loss to the Buffalo Bills. But for some members, such as Russell Wordell, who has been a lodge member for more than 60 years, missing the game was worth a trip down memory lane.

“We used to have the old clambakes and the Christmas parties,” Wordell recalled. “We used to have the Christmas dinner upstairs.”

At its heyday, the Odd Fellows counted more than 100 members. But as time went on and membership dwindled, parties became less frequent. But a resurgence in membership prompted by a controversial, since-dropped plan to build senior affordable housing units in the building, brought the fraternal organization new life in 2025.

Membership spiked as a result, with more than 50 applications and, ultimately, more than 30 new Odd Fellows this year.

Though they didn't all make it to the party, it was a festive affair — Santa and Mrs. Claus visited, Christmas music played, and kids ran around the lounge, taking pictures with Santa and drinking hot cocoa.

“Look at this,” Pineo said. “You’ve got children of all ages.”