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  2. Textiles (132)

Ladies Soldiers Aid Society Ribbon

Creator:
unknown
Location:
Unknown
Origin Date:
1862-1865
Materials:
cloth
Measurements:
overall: 7 in x 2 1/2 in
Item ID:
71.2009.082.0154
Holding Institution:
Lincoln Financial Foundation Collection, Courtesy of the Indiana State
Available for Viewing:
No
Category:
Textiles

Description

Silk ribbon features a star-shaped cluster of gold metallic sequins with a magenta center tacked to a rosette composed of star-shaped layers of faded red, white, and blue silk. Two silk ribbons-one white and one red-stream from the rosette. Both have notched ends. The white one is stamped with a blue eagle and the word "Union." This ribbon came into the Lincoln Museum collection with a note from Mrs. Westerman saying "A badge worn by the Ladies Soldiers Aid Society during the war. Mrs. Westerman." Mrs. Westerman was also involved in the organization of the Tazewell County Sanitary Fair whose proceeds were used for medical care for soldiers. Other collection items associated with Mrs. Henry P. Westerman are a letter from John Hay and two photographs signed by Abraham Lincoln (housed at ACPL in Fort Wayne, IN) to be sold at the Tazewell County Sanitary Fair in Illinois, a funeral relic (item ID 71.2009.082.100), and a Civil War battle flag created by the ladies of Pekin, Illinois, item ID 71.2009.082.0165, which was presented to the members of the 47th Illinois Volunteer Regiment in a presentation speech made by Mrs. Westerman. Part of the Lincoln Financial Foundation Collection, courtesy of the Indiana State Museum.