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Knights of Pythias Collection

 Collection
Identifier: RH-A-3806

Scope and Contents

The Constitution and Statutes book contained in this collection further outlines the goals and code of conduct for the Kalamazoo chapter of the K of P as well as other chapters around the country. The invitation for the May Base Ball dance is an example of the types of social activities and sub-organizations that each chapter of the K of P had. The dance was held in order to raise funds for the Kalamazoo Pythian Baseball team to build their new baseball field.

Dates

  • Creation: 1895-1921

Creator

Biographical / Historical

The Fraternal Order of the Knights of Pythias was founded on February 19, 1864 in Washington D.C. by Justus H. Rathbone (10/29/1839-12/9/1889). Dedicated to the cause of universal peace, the organization has more than two thousand subordinate chapters around the United States and Canada. Their primary objective is to promote cooperation and friendship between people of good will.

Extent

.05 Cubic Feet ; 4”x5 ¾” , 3 ½”x6”

Language of Materials

English

Physical Description

This collection amounts to 0.05 cubic feet of space and is comprised of one Constitution and Statutes book published in 1895 by the Grand Lodge of the Knights of Pythias, and one invitation and envelope for the May Base Ball dance given by the Kalamazoo Pythian Base Ball Association on May 25, 1921. The Constitution and Statutes booklet measures 4”x5 ¾” and is in okay condition. There is wear on the binding and some tearing on the top left cover. The inside pages have yellowed and are fragile. The invitation for the May Base Ball is white and black in color and measures 3 ½”x6.” It is in good condition with only a small tear on the bottom where it has been folded in half. The envelope for the invitation is white in color and measures 3 ¾”x6 ½.” It is in okay condition with creasing where the flap has been folded over and opened and discoloration from age and handling.

Title
Knights of Pythias Collection Finding Aid
Status
Completed
Author
Ashley Kirvan
Date
2015-07-27
Language of description
Undetermined
Script of description
Code for undetermined script

Repository Details

Part of the Western Michigan University Archives & Regional History Collections Repository

Contact:
Charles C. and Lynn L. Zhang Legacy Collections Center
1650 Oakland Drive
Kalamazoo MI 49008-5307 US
(269) 387-8490