About KOP

The Knights of Pythias is the first and only fraternal order approved by Congress on February 19, 1864, at the behest of President Abraham Lincoln. It was founded by Justus H. Rathbone. The Tempe Lodge #26 was chartered on May 3, 1907. Our most notable, past local members were U.S. Senator Carl Trumbull Hayden and U.S. Congressman John Rhodes. Tempe is one of our Arizona Lodges where most of the members reside in the immediate community. In addition to meetings, and normal Pythian functions, we host cultural events such as concerts and offer community contributions by opening our doors for neighborhood meetings and to Maricopa County as an electioneering polling site. We won the KOP State Growth Award in 2007. Tempe #26 is known for its commitment to The ARC of Tempe for developmentally disabled individuals, the Boys and Girls Club of Guadalupe, and the Tempe Community Action Agency (TCAA). They are recognized leaders in serving the disabled veterans of the area. If you’re interested in becoming a member or have questions about our brotherhood, get in touch with us. Meetings take place every first and third Wednesday of the month at 7:30 pm.
Our founder Justus H. Rathbone

About The Knights of Pythias

KOP Gallery