Knights of the Golden Eagle. Castle No. 244 (Lansdale, Pa.)

Founded in 1873 by John Emory Burbage, the Knights of the Golden Eagle (K.G.E.) is a fraternal organization with rituals based on those of the Crusaders. Members pass through three stages: Pilgrim, Knight, and Crusader. The society's motto is "Fidelity, Valor, and Honor," and rituals reflect the emphasis placed on the word of the Bible. In addition to giving moral and intellectual guidance, the society provides relief to sick or unemployed members and gives survivor benefits to widows and orphans. The female auxiliaries are known as "Ladies of the Golden Eagle."

At its height in 1900, the K.G.E. was active in twenty states with approximately 20,000 members. Membership began to decline with the onset of World War II. As of 2012, the organization has approximately 2,000 members, and is functioning in only three states: New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Delaware.

The Lansdale, Pennsylvania chapter of the Knights of the Golden Eagle, Castle No. 244, was established in 1888; its first meeting was held in February of that year. Castle No. 244 was one of the more wealthy Castles of Pennsylvania. The K.G.E was the first fraternal organization to own its own meeting space in Lansdale; its Hall was located in the heart of Lansdale's business district.

Bibliography:

"25th Anniversary Knights of Golden Eagles." The Reporter, February 12, 1913.

Mill Valley Lodge #356 (Mill Valley, Calif.). "Knights of the Golden Eagle (KGE)." Accessed November 26, 2012. http://mill-valley.freemasonry.biz/marin_knights_golden_eagle.htm

From the guide to the Knights of the Golden Eagle, Castle No. 244 (Lansdale, Pa.) minute books, 1888-1946, (Lansdale Historical Society)