What is the Princes of Bagdad?
The Princes of Bagdad were a side order associated with the Ancient and Illustrious Order of the Knights of Malta. Not to be confused with the Masonic Templars of the Commandery, the Knights of Malta were a separate organization, uniformed much like the Templars, with heavy emphasis on the Christian religion. As with many turn of the century fraternal groups, the members wanted an organization that was less serious within which to socialize and enjoy fellowship. Enter the Princes of Bagdad. To our knowledge, the Princes of Bagdad are long since defunct, but the Ancient and Illustrious Order of the Knights of Malta are still around in a small capacity.
The Princes met in groups called Siestas, but the number on the fez is not the number of the local body. Rather, owing to the legend of the initiation ritual, they were never supposed to have more than 77 members at a meeting. Bassora Siesta met in Bethlehem, PA. The fez is made of black felt, although it has dulled with age. The tassel is also black. The name and number are done in gold bullion style thread, which is slightly tarnished with age. This fez probably dates from prior to the 1930’s.
This fez is remarkably good condition for its age. It also unusual in that contains a scimitar above the number 77, while other examples i the collection do not contain this element. We are unsure if this is a mere stylistic choice, or if the scimitar denoted rank within the group. The bullion remains bright and shiny, while the body of the fez is still firm and undamaged. This fez probably dates from the 1930’s or before, making its preservation all that much more remarkable. Tut-Tut Siesta met in Lancaster, PA.
Sometimes, a fez just finds its way to us. This piece was purchased at an antique store in Adamstown, PA, in the Summer of 2025. Unlike some other groups, the Prince of Bagdad fezzes remain remarkably consistent in their design and execution. The fez has a very deep blue (nearly black) body. The tassel is of the short variety, prominent in the nineteen teens and twenties. The name of the local Siesta is embroidered along with the No. 77, both in gold bullion thread. There is some damage and pitting on the fez, especially near the “Neel” and on the right hand side while being viewed. But, for a fez that is likely more than 100 years old, it’s in pretty good shape. Bahr-en-Neel Siesta met in Sunbury, PA (and based on the newspaper accounts, they new how to party!)