Knights of Pythias, Uniform Rank button made 1878 to 1882.

Large 22mm brass button

Vintage Knights of Pythias Knights of Pythias button (Fraternal order founded in 1864)• Largely assembled by Civil War veterans who valued the disciplined military lifestyle, various drill corps organized under the Knights of Pythias were officially consolidated into the Uniform Rank in 1878.

• It was organized completely along U.S. Army lines into Companies, Brigades, and Regiments. Members wore their own military-style uniforms, called their lodges military units, used military titles, and attended “encampments” instead of conventions.

• While the regular Knights used a falcon as their symbol, the Uniform Rank adopted the dove as its official bird and the lily as its official flower, earning it the nickname the “Army of the Lily.”  

• Members participated in parades and processions, and the Uniform Rank was eventually banned within the organization in the 1950s.

• Branch: Uniform Rank (The semi-military division founded in 1878, known as the "Army of the Lily").
• Front Design: Features the text "Uniform Rank" surrounding a calla lily (representing Honor, Justice, and Loyalty) or a plume of feathers from a ceremonial dress helmet.
• Manufacturer Stamp (Backmark): Stamped "M.C. Lilley & Co. Columbus, O."

 Age & Rarity

• Production Date: Minted exactly between 1878 and 1882.
• Historical Significance: Because it lacks the word "The" (which was permanently added to the company name in 1882 following the founder's death), this is a rare, first-generation piece from the first four years of the Uniform Rank's existence.

⚔️ Context & The Texas Connection

• The Uniform: The button originally belonged to a double-breasted navy or black wool frock coat. The full uniform included brass scale-epaulets, a chapeau hat with sweeping ostrich feathers, and an etched ceremonial sword.
• Worn by Texas Civil War veterans who eagerly joined this division. Between 1878 and 1882.