Belt, Knights of Pythias

Object/Artifact

-

Ripon Historical Society

Name/Title

Belt, Knights of Pythias

Entry/Object ID

2005.0210.0001

Description

Red leather adjustable belt with grey metal buckle which says "Knights-Pythias." Also has 3 silver metal sliding attachments along the belt to which are attached elaborately patterned chains, ending in spring clips. The leather is intact but the red color is worn. All metal parts are complete, functional, but show some wear and are tarnished. Probably belonged to Hazen R. Hill as found with other part of the Knights of Pythias uniform. To be kept together with A2005-208-2-393 Cuffs C3 clothing accessory, and A2005-209-1-393 Cap C3 clothing, Headwear. See Pedrick Genealogy and Donor's file for copy of p. 679 and 680 of Green Lake, Marquette, and Waushara counties "Directory and Information" on Knights of Pythias (3 pages).

Context

According to the Green Lake, Marquette, and Waushara Co. Directory of 1890, Hazen Hill, who came to Ripon in 1849, was a member of the Knights of Pythias. Hazen is a relative of the donor, who is owner of the house where the belt, along with other parts of the uniform, were found. This fraternal organization, founded in Washington, D.C., established deep roots in Ripon alongside other prominent lodges like the Masons and Odd Fellows. The Knights of Pythias was an international, non-sectarian order founded by Justus H. Rathbone and chartered by the U.S. Congress in 1864. Rooted in the ancient Greek legend of Damon and Pythias, the society promoted the core values of Friendship, Charity, and Benevolence.

Collection

Clothing

Acquisition

Accession

2005.0210

Source or Donor

Schroeder, Ralston

Acquisition Method

Gift

Lexicon

Nomenclature 4.0

Nomenclature Primary Object Term

Belt

Nomenclature Sub-Class

Clothing Accessories

Nomenclature Class

Clothing

Nomenclature Category

Category 03: Personal Objects

Search Terms

Clothing, Accessory, Belt, Knights of Pythias