RARE C. 1850 Native American Party Know Nothings Anti-Catholic Campaign Ribbon
Here is a very nice and rather large early campaign ribbon, in quite splendid condition overall, and it measures app. This early and important patriotic piece shows just light wear, with some minor imperfections and small wrinkles nothing overly distracting, and I have not cleaned or altered its appearance in any manner. Three of the photos have been “enhanced” for clarity, and there are some miniscule holes at the bottom. This is an important piece of our history, probably made about 1850, the political party later known as the American Party after 1855. House of Representatives representing the 1st District of Pennsylvania from 1845 to 1851. Known as “Know-Nothings” due to their vows of secrecy, the group was anti-immigrant and xenophobic, yet was progressive in ways, regarding women’s right and temperance. Lewis was committed to an asylum near the end of his life. The ribbon has “Our Country And Our Flag” at the top with curly decorations, a fellow beneath doffing his hat while wrapped in a flag, a steamship behind. Below is “Native Americans” around a radiant eagle holding arrows and an American shield, a sailing vessel behind, above an oval portrait of George Washington, who is wreathed in differing plant species. At the bottom is Published & for Sale by W. 215 Chestnut St. 2nd door above 7th – Philadelphia.
