Alabama Knights of Pythias of North America, South America, Europe, Asia, Africa, and Australia - by Marilyn T Peebles (Hardcover)

About the Book

The Knights of Pythias fraternal organization was founded in 1865. African American men were denied membership and created their own organization in 1880. In Birmingham, Alabama, these Pythians became the cornerstone of an African American business community as well as a sourc...

Book Synopsis

The Knights of Pythias fraternal organization was founded in 1865. African American men were denied membership and created their own organization in 1880. In Birmingham, Alabama, these Pythians became the cornerstone of an African American business community as well as a source of civic pride and racial solidarity.

Review Quotes

In this book, Professor Marilyn Peebles provides an accurate and concise history of the African American Knight of Pythias in the United States generally and in Birmingham, Alabama, particularly. The writing is clear and interesting. She has contacted the proper sources and thereby her research is excellent. I highly recommend it to persons who want an increased knowledge of the importance of fraternal organizations in the segregated African America community.


Marilyn T. Peebles has reawakened our memories of the Pythian purpose: The aim of the Pythian Order is to put into the home a good husband and father, into the community a good neighbor, and into the state a good citizen.

About the Author

Marilyn T. Peebles is a professor of history at Miles College in Fairfield, Alabama. She is also a content consultant and lecturer for Teaching American History Grant schools.