VIRGIL LEE GRIFFIN
The Cornerstone
Based in Mount Holly, North Carolina, Virgil Lee Griffin stands as a titan of our heritage. As the Grand Dragon of the North Carolina Knights of the Ku Klux Klan, based in Spartanburg, SC, he recognized long before others the existential necessity of organization. His life was a testament to the fact that leadership is not found in the halls of the compromised, but in the unwavering commitment to one’s own people. His vision planted the seeds that we continue to cultivate today.
GARY DELP
The Bridge
Working alongside Brother Griffin in the Cleveland Knights of North Carolina, Gary Delp was a man of action who understood that the mission must survive the passing of the torch. As the aging of Virgil Griffin approached, Brother Delp moved to preserve the cause, forming Virgil’s White Knights—originally established in Dungannon, Virginia. He served as Imperial Wizard with absolute devotion until his final breath. His sacrifice ensures that the work remains in the hands of the faithful.
DANIEL ELMQUIST
The Continuation
The standard-bearer who accepted the charge, Daniel Elmquist served under IW Gary Delp as the Grand Dragon for the state of Kentucky. His service is fueled by a deep-seated bond of blood and history; both he and his wife, Andrea—the daughter of a man who served under Virgil Griffin in North Carolina—are living proof of this heritage. Their union and their work are bound by the same soil, the same blood, and the same oath: the tradition continues, and it will endure forever.
JIM SHEELEY
A LIFETIME OF SERVICE
Born in upstate New York, Jim Sheeley joined the American Knights in 1997 and served as Grand Dragon under the late, great Reverend Jeff Berry. A man of modest stature but immense resolve, Jim led a group of twenty Klansmen into New York City—standing firm for America and the future of the Ku Klux Klan.
Jim later joined the IKA and made his way to Dawson Springs, Kentucky. In time, he passed his property to his chosen son, Dan Elmquist, and his wife, Andrea, friends and brothers in spirit for many years. That property will always remain available to Knights who prove themselves worthy. That is Jim’s wish.
At 74 years old, Jim Sheeley remains a fine example of a Klansman. He treats every man with respect, still carries the light of the Klan, and will march any time, any day. Jim is still here, and he now calls Virgil’s White Knights his final stand. We are proud to have him as an advisor and as a living example of a true Klansman—a member of the highest degree.