Swords played a significant role in most fraternal and secret societies all through the years. The Freemasons are probably the oldest and most popular organization that uses historical fraternal swords in their rituals and regalia. These organizations were formed in Europe in mid 1700s. They came to America during European colonization in the late 1800s. Other similar organizations were formed in the United States ever since but most of them are mere social clubs that took from the activities of the existing fraternal societies in Europe.
Still, there are fraternal organizations that are formed for political, patriotic or religious ideals. Aside from that, most of these organizations are beneficial to the members, providing medical and life insurance.
Some of the organizations that prevailed aside from the Freemason are the Benevolent Protectorate Order of the Elks, Knights of Pythias, Knights of Columbus, The Loyal Order of the Moose, Ancient Order of Hibernians, etc., all of which use historical fraternal swords in their rituals especially during rituals of inauguration. The swords often times express the symbols of the society. By studying these symbolisms, one can learn a great bulk of historical information based on the context where the secret society was formed.
Historical fraternal swords were specifically created for ceremonial rites as chivalric blades. They are not made for actual combat at all although they embody the tradition of fighting for a noble cause. They are related to western chivalry as samurai swords are related to the Imperial Japan. The owner of the sword bears the tradition of living by a code of honor.