This is one of the old German knighthood orders (the other: Deutschherren) which,
historically were religious in nature and stem >from the time of the crusades.

Later on (beginning 19th cent.) they became more secular. During the Weimar years
they again became religious (protestant). They were forbidden by Hitler and again
became prominent in both Austria and Germany after 1945.

The headquarters of the orders changed over the centuries. The order itself
consists of a black cross and a white cape with a black cross.

Gerrard Salomon, San Diego CA jerrysalomon@sbglobal.net