A Story of the Original Ku Klux Klan.

Pamphlet, 8vo, original wrapper, illustrated, 30 pp. Slight dark ring on cover, minor ink spot, some notations and pencil marks within, small stain on rear cover, normal aging and browning; otherwise very good. Romine lived in Pulaski, Tennessee for many years, and was an intimate acquaintance of members of the original Klan. According to Romine, the original KKK used its powers to protect "superstitious Negroes" and "the ignorant lawless white element, both being rendered unruly by atrocious political influences." He adds that in the Klan's original objective was to have fun. They did this with their "farcical imitation and ceremonies attending the reception of their new members." Interestingly, it is doubtful that subsequent Klan members understand that the practices of their group were started as a joke. Romine states that the Klan started to get serious when "carpet baggers" started stirring up the Negroes. According to Romine, while the majority of Negroes remained the kind hearted folk they always were, some became "dangerous savages" because of the influence of liquor and "carpet Baggers." The Klan came to the rescue, but Romine insists they seldom used violence. Instead, they "relied almost exclusively on the Negroes fear of ghosts." Interesting interpretation of the Klan, and there is a relatively accurate description of some of the Klan history. It way also written at a time of the last real surge in Klan membership. By the end of the 1920s, membership would dwindle dramatically. Includes four photographs. Work p.378.