There are several divisions of the order of the KU KLUX KLANS, all working
under the same ritual and oaths, and having the same signs, grips,
passwords, modes of approach, and general conduct of raids and midnight
excursions. These are known under the names of "Knights of the White
Camelia," "The Invisible Empire," "The White Brotherhood," "The Unknown
Multitude," "The Union and Young Men's Democracy." All work in disguise,
with the exception of the latter, who work openly as well as in disguise,
and are all under the instructions of the "Grand Cyclops" and the Supreme
Grand Council. They all have one and the same object, which is as plainly
set forth in the oath as it well can be in an obligation of that
character.
The difference in names and styles has been adopted for a two-fold
purpose. First, to conceal the origin, object, and design of the order,
and its founders and directors; secondly, to conceal its extent and
numbers, and make it appear a mere local affair that has cropped out in
different places without reference to any organized combination with one
grand center.
The workings of the Klans over all the Southern country show more
conclusively than any amount of subterfuge on the part of the leaders,
that one common tie binds them all; that one common interest actuates
them; that one common end is to be accomplished. The oath differs slightly
in phraseology in different localities, to accommodate the varied
circumstances under which it is administered, and with a view to greater
concealment--the words "Unknown Multitude," "Invisible Empire," and "White
Brotherhood" being substituted in North and South Carolina; the words
"Union and Young Men's Democracy," in Georgia and Mississippi; and the
words "Knights of the White Camelia," in Louisiana and Texas and other
States.