ROYAL BLACK INSTITUTION OF ROYAL BLACK KNIGHTS OF THE CAMP OF ISRAEL IN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA ROYAL BLACK PRECEPTORY,

2.5 ft.

MSS 89

by

Richard D. Chicko

July 1991

HISTORICAL BACKGROUND

The Royal Black Preceptory is a higher order of the Loyal Orange Institution reserved for members who have attained the Royal Arch Purple Marksman Degree.

The Loyal Orange Institution originated in Ireland in 1795, as a fraternal society among the Protestants of County Armagh.  Named in honor of King William III of England, Prince of Orange, lodges were established in most Protestant centers of Ireland by 1800, England and Canada by 1808, and among Ulster immigrants in New York City by 1867.  Rapid growth in the society led to the establishment of a Grand Lodge for the United States in 1870.  By 1873 there were 100 lodges claiming a national membership of 10,000, growing to 364 lodges and 30,000 members by 1914.

The society was founded on the principles of Protestantism, patriotism, and preservation of the concept of separation of church and state.  Membership was restricted to Protestant men eighteen years of age and older, who professed a life of temperance.  Though not exclusive to a particular ethnic group, most members are Scotch-Irish or of Scotch-Irish ancestry.

Originally organized as a fraternal secret society, over the years the Loyal Orange Institution in the U.S. has become philanthropic in practice.  In 1902, the Orange Home was founded in Hatboro, Pennsylvania, as a residence for orphans.  It became a retirement home in 1948, with renovations and additions being made in 1964 and 1974.

PROVENANCE

The records were donated to the Balch Institute in 1990 by Mr. George A. Dunn.  The collection was processed in July 1991 by Richard D. Chicko with the assistance of Balch archivist Monique Bourque.  The collection is open to accredited scholars and genealogists.  There are some restricted materials in this collection.

SCOPE AND CONTENT NOTE

The records of the Royal Black Preceptory Star of Liberty No. 34, includes minutes for the period 1908 to 1955, dues records from 1923 to 1955, annual reports from 1972 to 1989, by-law and installation manuals, correspondence, and some financial records.