Nativist "Order of Daughters of Liberty" Pinback Badge Ribbon

A badge ribbon from the Order of the Daughters of Liberty, an auxiliary order of the United American Mechanics, ca. 1897. The United American Mechanics (UAM), a nativist fraternal organization first established in 1840s Philadelphia, expanded its membership to include the young and female, with the Junior Order of American Mechanics in 1853, and the Order of the Daughters of Liberty in 1875.

The Order of the Daughters of Liberty was organized by council, or local chapter. This decoration, from Council No. 3 (likely somewhere in New England), is comprised of a lapel pin, a ribbon, and a badge. At top, a pinback lapel bar depicts a pair of shaking hands and an open Bible above a banner reading "Daughters of Liberty." The council number is engraved on a medallion suspended from the lapel pin. A silk American flag ribbon connects the pin to a shield-form badge depicting a Liberty figure holding scales and an American flag, emblazoned by the group's motto, "Fidelity, Patriotism, Integrity." Patent information verso dates the piece to ca. 1897, and the badge is also trademarked "National Council D. of L." Expected superficial wear, else bright, crisp, and in near fine condition, especially the fabric. Measures 4.625" long by 2" wide. Currently stored on a black velvet bed in a custom clamshell box measuring 4.5" x 5.5." x 1."

The Order of the Daughters of Liberty was founded in Meriden, Connecticut in 1875. By 1903, it had expanded its membership to more than 50,000 members in 600 councils in 26 of the United States. Eligibility was predicated on age (16+), gender (female), race (white only), and citizenship status (born in the U.S. or its territories.) A nativist organization, the Daughters of Liberty advocated for restricted immigration and naturalization. Daughters also lobbied for temperance, compulsory education, and freedom of worship. The organization aimed "to promote social intercourse and mutual improvement…[in accordance with] American principles" in addition to providing financial assistance to its members in times of sickness, unemployment, or death.

This item comes with a Certificate from John Reznikoff, a premier authenticator for both major 3rd party authentication services, PSA and JSA (James Spence Authentications), as well as numerous auction houses.

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