Price: Please call 618-553-2291, or email info@bonsellamericana.com
Frame Size (H x L): 18” x 26”
Pennant Size (H x L): 8.5” x 16.5”  

Offered is a pennant made of cotton. It has a triangular shape with a yellow background, a common color used in the women’s suffrage movement. The text "VOTES FOR WOMEN" is boldly printed in black capital letters across the surface, emphasizing the message central to the early 20th century suffrage campaign.

The pennant is a symbolic artifact from the women’s suffrage movement, which was a pivotal social and political campaign of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. In the United States, the movement sought to secure women's right to vote and challenged the entrenched inequalities in political representation. The suffrage movement emerged in response to broader conversations about civil rights, as women activists argued that they, too, should be granted the same voting rights that men enjoyed. This effort reached its height in the early 20th century, as suffragists organized rallies, distributed literature, and used visual symbols like pennants to garner public support for their cause.

The use of pennants like this one became a powerful tool for protest, as they were easily portable, visually striking, and could be displayed in public spaces to attract attention to the suffrage cause. The yellow color was often associated with the suffragist movement in the U.S., particularly the National Woman’s Party, which was one of the most prominent organizations advocating for women’s voting rights. This vibrant hue, combined with slogans like "Votes for Women," helped unify supporters of the cause and provided a sense of solidarity in the fight for equality. The phrase “Votes for Women” became a rallying cry that encapsulated the demands of the movement.

The suffrage movement faced significant opposition from those who believed that granting women the right to vote would disrupt traditional gender roles and undermine social stability. Despite these challenges, activists like Susan B. Anthony, Elizabeth Cady Stanton, and later Alice Paul continued their advocacy, using peaceful protests, lobbying efforts, and visual campaigns to pressure politicians and influence public opinion. As the movement gained momentum, these symbols of suffrage, such as pennants, buttons, and banners, became increasingly visible across the country.

Ultimately, the persistence of the women’s suffrage movement led to the ratification of the 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution in 1920, which prohibited the federal government and states from denying citizens the right to vote based on sex. This monumental victory came after decades of tireless activism and was a turning point in the struggle for gender equality in America. The "Votes for Women" pennant, therefore, not only represents a specific moment in history but also serves as a lasting symbol of the determination and resilience of the suffragists who fought for political inclusion.

Conservation Process: This pennant was hand sewn to cotton fabric, and both were hand sewn to a mounting board. To prevent the black dye in the cotton fabric from seeping into the pennant, it was first washed in a standard wash and then in a dye setting wash.  The pennant is positioned behind Optium Museum Acrylic.

Frame: The frame has a sleek, modern design with a black outer edge and an inner metallic silver border. It features multiple beveled layers, creating a visually striking contrast that enhances the presentation of the pennant.

Condition Report: The pennant is in generally good condition, showing some signs of aging with light discoloration and a few small stains. These minor imperfections are typical for an artifact of its age, and they add to its historical character.

Collectability Level: The Great – Perfect for Rising Collectors 
Date of Origin: 1910-1920