Posted 8 years ago
SDCameraFan
(6 items)
Vintage Turn of the Century International Order of Odd Fellows (I.O.O.F) Celluloid Pins, Medallions & Memorial Ribbons
These are two-sided memorial ribbons, some with celluloid and metal medallions at their center and topped with celluloid "handshake" pins or other interesting imagery. The "waving flags" attached to the overlay ribbons, are hand or machine made.
Most are manufactured by The Whitehead & Hoag Co., which was based in Newark, NJ., and patent dates start in the 1890's. These were evidently manufactured for individual Odd Fellows lodges or organizations, to be worn at specific functions, perhaps when someone important passed away.
The envelope was a nice recent find with it's patent date details, and it still has it's original cardboard insert and envelope string-tie. (The seller listed it as being in "tattered" condition).
I've been seeking out these turn of the century ribbons and pins for a few months now. I haven't really delved deeply into their history, but I know what I like.
One (tri-color ribbon) is actually from a Knights of Pythias lodge. My dad was a member of one for many years and attained a high rank there.
Most of these were found on eBay and at reasonable prices.
These are great, nice collection!
Thanks pops52!
Beautiful fascination, something I have always been interested in.
I have never seen a display like this before. What a find!!
What were the International Order of Odd Fellows all about?
Here's the lowdown on the group: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Independent_Order_of_Odd_Fellows
These are available in an almost endless variety! The late 19th/ early 20th century was the heyday for fraternal groups-- with so many groups, lodges, and event badges you can probably assemble a huge collection with few duplicates.
For the most part, these ribbons and badges are available at very reasonable prices.
Good luck with the collection!
scott
Thanks PhilDMorris!
Thanks PostCardCollector!
I have a collection of postcards as well!
One collection at a time :)
True scottvez. There are many of these out there and the scope and variety is almost endless. Sometimes the ribbons are in sad shape but the medallions and celluloid badges/pins can be salvaged.