Ritual of the Order of the Eastern Star

Essential guidebook to this Masonic order, which was founded in 1850 & unusual in that it was open to both men & women & prominently featured women in positions of authority (the highest being Worthy Matron). The book includes general regulations for members, opening & closing chapters, installation into grand & subordinate chapters, initiation rites, funeral ceremonies, etc. Orig. published in 1890, this is an Apr 1914 printing of the Fourth Edition, amended in Sept. 1913 at a special session in Chicago, IL. Hardcover 24mo (4" x 6") has dark green cloth-covered boards with a stamped gilt design to front, somewhat faded in spots, & a blind-stamped design faming it on both front & back boards. In 136 pages, publisher's red stain to all outside page edges, illustrated with pen-and-ink sketches throughout. Condition is Good+: very clean, stitched binding strong & straight, pages creamy white with age-appropriate tanning to edges & some foxed spots, else completely unmarked. Rubbing to extremities, heavy in 2 small spots at top edge of front board & to both ends of spine, with fraying & cloth loss here, as well as at the corners. No DJ, as issued. Our photos depict the Exact book you will receive, never "stock" images of books we don't actually have! Same Day Shipping on all orders received by 2 pm Weekdays (Pacific time); later orders, Weekends & holidays ship very next business day.…