Posted 10 years ago
SpiritBear
(813 items)
Grand Army of the Republic, formed for Union Civil War veterans as a racially integrated fraternal organization in 1866 and died when it's last member died in 1956.
Banner is printed on one side and shows up on both sides. It measures about 3 feet by about 2 feet.
What I am hoping to find out is:
How old is this piece?
How can I safely clean it, as it needs a good cleaning?
I would date this to the early 20th century. I have seen the GAR and other fraternal groups use this same type of cloth banner.
I don't know that I would try and clean it-- I'd be afraid cleaning would take off some of the graphics.
scott
Also, the stain/ discoloration on your banner doesn't detract from value or desirability!
A clean white banner would scare most collectors.
scott
Thank you for your help, scottvez. Are these common, then?
I see them with some regularity (at Civil War shows).
And prices have come down fairly significantly in recent years.
scott
I've seen other banners like this, albeit not from G. A. R., in my antiquing and have always wondered on them. Thanks for your help.