Drawing from a 1910 Knights of Pythias manual by Capt. Hugh Goold Webb, this article traces the ancient roots of secret societies—from prehistoric brotherhoods and sacred mysteries to medieval guilds and modern fraternal orders. Exploring how faith, craftsmanship, and mutual aid shaped these hidden networks, it reveals how the ideals of brotherhood and moral duty have endured across civilizations and centuries.

After being formally recognized by the Supreme Lodge, Justus H. Rathbone served as Supreme Lecturer of the Knights of Pythias until his death, traveling widely to deliver lectures such as “True Pythianism” and “The Mission of Our Order.” Honored with a commemorative medal and warmly received by Lodges across the country, Rathbone remained dedicated to spreading the Order’s principles of Friendship, Charity, and Benevolence. Despite personal hardships, including the loss of his wife and financial difficulties, he continued to serve the Order and inspire its members. Rathbone passed away in 1889 during a lecture tour, and his contributions were commemorated with a monumental shrine at New Forest Cemetery, symbolizing his enduring legacy as the Founder and guiding spirit of the Knights of Pythias.

Justus H. Rathbone (1839–1889), Founder and Past Supreme Chancellor of the Knights of Pythias, dedicated his life to creating a fraternal order grounded in peace, goodwill, and the principles of Friendship, Charity, and Benevolence. Born in Deerfield, New York, Rathbone pursued education at several academies before embarking on varied careers as a teacher, clerk, and hospital steward during the Civil War. In 1864, he conceived the ritual and structure of the Order, establishing Washington Lodge No. 1 and laying the foundation for the organization’s enduring principles. Despite early misunderstandings and temporary disconnections from the Order, Rathbone’s vision was ultimately recognized by the Supreme Lodge, affirming him as the sole Founder. Through his leadership, Rathbone created a civic fraternity that continues to inspire service, loyalty, and moral integrity among its members.

The Knights of Pythias, founded as an American fraternal order, aim to promote the elevation, happiness, and betterment of mankind through the timeless principles of Friendship, Charity, and Benevolence. Within its lodges, members of all backgrounds meet on equal footing, with no religious or political distinctions, and are encouraged to visit and support those in distress, care for widows and orphans, assist the sick, and uphold honor and justice in all dealings. Guided by the story of Damon and Pythias, the Order fosters mutual confidence, loyalty, and moral integrity, while its structured system of Subordinate Lodges, Grand Lodges, and the Supreme Lodge ensures governance, accountability, and continuity. Through its teachings, ceremonies, and example, the Knights of Pythias strive to create a fraternity of worthy men dedicated to friendship, service, and the betterment of both themselves and society.

Adopted by the Supreme Lodge in Cleveland, Ohio, on August 16, 1877, the Knights of Pythias were founded to promote the universality of human brotherhood, guided by the timeless principles of Friendship, Charity, and Benevolence. Toleration in religion, obedience to law, and loyalty to government are central to the Order, whose duties include uplifting the fallen, assisting widows and orphans, visiting the sick, and supporting brothers in need. While the Order holds private meetings and certain initiation ceremonies for members, its objectives, principles, and membership are public, making it a society focused on service rather than secrecy. Damon and Pythias, along with Pythagoras, serve as moral exemplars, inspiring the values and rituals of the Order. Members are encouraged to actively attend lodge meetings, engage in charitable works, and deepen their knowledge of the Order’s history and purposes, fostering loyalty, fellowship, and service among all.