Many American fraternal groups used painted backdrops to set the scene for their degree rituals. This backdrop was used for the Initiatory Degree of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. The scene depicts a moonlit night in a church graveyard. It complemented the use of a skeleton and other such props that reminded the initiate of the solemnity of life and the obligation to devote it to helping others. An Odd Fellows monitor explained that the initiate followed the path toward the light: "From all that gloom, light will shine forth to guide aright. It will humble human pride. It will awaken compassion for others."

Versions of this scene were widely produced by American regalia makers. The Ward Stilson Company of Anderson, Indiana, for example, offered the backdrop with a floor cloth and set pieces for $43.30 and the painting alone for $23.90. The Pettibone Brothers Manufacturing Company of Cincinnati sold its version "with hooks ready for hanging, complete" for $30. Pettibone further suggested that "with a subdued light in your hall and a small light placed behind the window in the church, which will then cast a glow down the pathway, the effect can better be imagined than described here."

Stacy C. Hollander, "Independent Order of Odd Fellows Initiatory Degree Scenic Backdrop," exhibition label for Mystery and Benevolence: Masonic and Odd Fellows Folk Art from the Kendra and Allan Daniel Collection. Stacy C. Hollander, curator. New York: American Folk Art Museum, 2016.

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