History of KOP

This movement, originally the Chivalric Order of Knight Companions, was commenced by Masons representing The Grand Jurisdiction of Kansas and Colorado, in a conference held on November 19th, 1938. It was adopted for universal use in the Grand Jurisdiction of Prince Hall Masons dispersed throughout the United States under the name “The Order of the Knights of Pythagoras,” at the National Conference of Grand Masters of Prince Hall Masons, under the leadership of Grand Master Amos T. Hall, President, held in Denver, Colorado, May 8-10, 1951. A survey of all the movements designed for the benefit of youths, as started in several Grand Jurisdictions, disclosed two alarming defects.
- Because of the localization of these movements, boys found no similar organizations when they left their homes and traveled to other states,
- the jurisdictions, of themselves, have shown that, financially and in many other respects, they are unable to provide adequately and efficiently for this all-important work.
The National Order of the Knights of Pythagoras was established in 2017.
History of KOP in North Carolina
In 1958, Past Grand Master Clark S. Brown, under his leadership and devotions, instituted the North Carolina Council Order of the Knights of Pythagoras with Brother B. N. Cook of Winston-Salem as the first Grand Knight Director. The first Council organized was the J. H. Young Memorial Council #1. After a few years, the North Carolina Order of Knights of Pythagoras became inactive.
In 1975, late Past Grand Master Herbert Bell Shaw re-instituted the North Carolina Council Order of the Knights of Pythagoras under the leadership of Brother Joseph L. Pillow, the second Grand Knight Director.
The first Assemblage of the North Carolina Order of the Knights of Pythagoras was held in Fayetteville, North Carolina, at the Grand Lodge Communications in 1976. Silver Square Council #1 was chartered on July 10, 1975.

Requirements for Membership
It is not necessary for a boy to be a son or a relative of a Mason to be eligible for membership but youths who have passed their eigth birthday and who are of good character may petition a Council of the Knights of Pythagoras for membership. It should be borne in mind that this organization is not a Junior Masonic Order but is merely under Masonic Supervision.
- Be between the ages of 8 – 18
- Believe in God
- Be of good character and reputation
- Be recommended by a Sir Knight or a Prince Hall Mason
Become a Knight
Are you a young man aged 8-18 interested in developing leadership skills, serving your community, and building strong bonds of brotherhood? The Knights of Pythagoras offers a unique opportunity for personal growth and development. Complete the form below to express your interest in joining our council and a member will be in touch with you soon.