The Knights of Pythias – Van Valkenburg – 1886 | Illustrated Manual, 36 Plates

Knights of Pythias manual 1886 illustrated, published in Canton, Ohio by Memento Publishing Co. Authored by Jno. Van Valkenburg, this richly visual work expands upon earlier material issued in 1877 and offers a complete treatment of the ceremonial ranks, regalia, rituals, lodge regulations, insurance systems, and leadership structure of the Knights of Pythias. The society, founded in 1864, became the first fraternal order formally chartered by the U.S. Congress. Many Pythians were also Freemasons, though no institutional link existed between the two. This volume features 36 full-page engraved plates, including 5 in color, alongside numerous ritual diagrams, portraits, and official emblems.

Condition:
Bound in original brown cloth stamped in gilt and black. Gilt emblem on upper board and spine, floral-patterned endpapers. Binding tight and square. Light wear to corners and spine ends. Internally very clean with strong impressions. All 36 plates present and well preserved.

Bibliographic Details:

• Title: The Knights of Pythias Complete Manual and Text-Book

• Author: Jno. Van Valkenburg

• Publisher: Canton, Ohio: Memento Publishing Co.

• Edition: [Leave blank unless needed]

• Format: Octavo, single volume

• Binding: Original brown cloth, gilt and black stamped, floral endpapers

• Size: ~ 7.75in X 5.5in (19.5cm x 14cm)

• Collation: xvi, 17–492 pp; continuous pagination

• Illustrations: 36 full-page engraved plates, 5 in color

• Contents Include:

  • Ritual Ranks and Officer Duties

  • Historical Origins and Supreme Lodge Acts

  • Uniform and Insurance Regulations

  • Portraits, Emblems, and Ceremonial Architecture

A visually authoritative work issued as the organization expanded its national profile, with upgraded content from its earlier issue.

Why Collect This?

• Strong copy of a richly illustrated fraternal text

• Includes all 36 engraved plates with color lithographs

• Official content published by the Order’s own press

• Uncommon in this condition with full illustrations

• Published during the Knights’ peak cultural influence

Item number: #41377

Price: $499

VAN VALKENBURG, Jno.

The Knights of Pythias Complete Manual and Text-Book

Canton, Ohio: Memento Publishing Co., 1886.

Our Guarantee:

Very Fast. Very Safe. Free Shipping Worldwide.

Customer satisfaction is our priority! Notify us with 7 days of receiving, and we will offer a full refund without reservation!

41377