Grand Order of Water Rats - Origin

Origin

In 1889, two successful British music hall performers, Joe Elvin and Jack Lotto, owned a trotting pony called The Magpie. Being a regular race winner, the pony's owners decided that they would use the profits to help performers who were less fortunate than themselves. Thus an organization was formed to collate their efforts, along with the dual purpose of acting as a social club for performers. One day, as Joe Elvin was driving the pony back to its stables in the pouring rain, a passing bus driver called out, "Wot yer got there, mate?" "Our trotting pony!" replied Joe. Observing the bedraggled, soaked condition of the pony, the driver shouted back, " Trotting pony? Looks more like a bleedin' water rat!"

And thus the organization's name was coined, aligned with the fact that Rats spelled backwards is Star. With their benevolent aims in mind, it was also noted that a Water Rat is a type of vole, which is an anagram of "love", thus underlining the Order's agenda of Brotherly Love. (Motto: Philanthropy, conviviality and social intercourse.) A member of the public can become a Friend of the Water Rats.

The charity raises money by organising shows, lunches, dinners and other events. The objects of the charity are “... to assist members of the theatrical profession, or their dependents, who, due to illness or old age are in need.” When possible additional funds raised go to a diverse range of charities and good causes including hospitals, health charities and benevolent funds.

The Water Rats originally held meetings in Sunbury on Thames in a public house now called 'The Magpie'. Their headquarters is now based at the Water Rats pub in Grays Inn Road in King's Cross, London.