The Knights Templar of Defiance, Ohio - 1894

The Knights Templar (K. T.) is one of the oldest fraternal bodies in the United States, begun in Ohio in 1818.  One of its requirements was that its members be professed Christians.  

From the Defiance Democrat - November 15, 1894 -

"THE KNIGHTS TEMPLAR
Held Their Annual Election of Officers.

Defiance Commandery No. 30, K. T., held their annual election of officers Friday eve.  
The following members were chosen to serve the ensuing year:

E. Squire - Eminent Commander
J. P. Cameron - Generalissimo
Geo. W. Bechel - Capt. Gen'l.
L. E. Beardsley- Prelate
Chas. D. Harris - Sr. Warden
J. V. Cuff - Jr. Warden
Geo. W. Deatrick - Treasurer
R. T. Whitaker - Recorder
John L. Pocock - Standard Bearer
H. B. Tenzer - Sword Bearer
R. W. Wortman - Warden
F. W. Dittmer - Sentinel