This group dates back to 1853 when it was founded as a fraternal and political secret society for American citizens of both sexes. In 1853 the group authorized a Junior lodge which proceeded to outgrow the parent organization which it absorbed. One of their early goals was to prevent sectarian influence upon the public school system while upholding the reading of the Bible. The organization reached its height in 1900 with 200,000 members. They produced these incredibly ornate ribbon badges which in this group measure between 7" and 9.25" tall. Each features a celluloid insert on the hanger bar with a ribbon or chain suspending a second celluloid piece measuring between 1" and 1.75". Reverse of each piece is finished in black and silver for attending member funerals. Locations of these ribbon badges are Buchanan, VA., Port Jervis, NY., Trenton, NJ., Lake Placid, NY., Weldon, NC., West Manchester Ohio. Tiny bit of color bleed on the upper left ribbon of the second item, tiny 1/8x.25" hole in the upper ribbon on the third item, and slight loss of silver lettering on the fifth item. Overall condition of the group is Exc. See similar item as part of lot #823.