First Published in 1996. Volume 8 in the 8-volume series titled American Cities: A Collection of Essays. This series brings together more than 200 scholarly articles pertaining to the history and development of urban life in the United States during the past two centuries. Volume 8 discusses several institutions that are uniquely urban: voluntary associations, vigilance committees, and organized police forces. These articles attempt to consider race and ethnicity class, gender, and the various experiences of different groups of Americans.
Jeffers delves into Masonic history to reveal the surprising and controversial truths behind this ancient and secretive order, from its mystery-shrouded origins in medieval Europe through its rise in America, where Benjamin Franklin founded the first lodge.