An antique masonic Knights Templar York Rite ceremonial sword. A blade engraved with a Memento Mori lettering and a crowned Passion Cross laid upon the Cross pattee, as well as other decorations and the owners initials. Produced by E.A. Armstrong, Chicago, Illinois. Circa the late 19th or early 20th century. The sword has a black wood handle with a white cross, and a brass knight head pommel. A guard features a medieval knight portrait in profile. Comes with an original scabbard with chased Masonic decorations and a bottom with the Cross pattee. The York Rite is one of several Rites of Freemasonry. A Rite is a series of progressive degrees that are conferred by various Masonic organizations or bodies, each of which operates under the control of its own central authority. The Rite name is derived from the city of York, where, according to one Masonic legend, the first meetings of Masons in England took place. Antique And Vintage Masonic Swords And Collectibles.