The Knights of the Maccabees was organized in 1878 as a beneficiary society. The name came from the ancient Maccabees who were followers of Judas Maccabeus. The "History of the Maccabees" explains, " They were not of any particular tribe, but were Jews who feared not to face death in defense of their belief in the God of their fathers. The exact meaning of the name 'Maccabeus' is veiled in obscurity, but. ..it was deemed to be an appropriate term to describe. ..a man of indomitable zeal and iron nerve... ". The Modern Maccaabees began in London, Ontario in 1878. Two years later meetings were held in Port Huron, Michigan and Buffalo, New York. Other "Great Camps" soon began in several states around the country and all provinces of Canada. The organization started out to care for the widows and orphans of its members. Originally, no medical examinations were required, and men, without regard to their age, family record, or physical condition, were admitted as endowment members. Each state or province had its "Great Camp", with divisions in cities known as "Supreme Tents".
From the description of The Knights of the Maccabees records, 1881-1966 (Detroit Public Library). WorldCat record id: 547103125
