Frame Size (H x L): 15.5” x 15.5”
Kerchief Size (H x L): 7” x 7” 

Offered is an antique kerchief with a “BEER FOR TAXATION” overprint.  It was made to support the repeal of prohibition and dates to between 1920 and 1933.  The field is made of white cotton.  “BEER” is sewn with black thread, while “FOR TAXATION” is sewn with red thread.  The entire overprint is canted to the 3:00 position.  A small “FRANCE” sticker is affixed to the white field.  These were originally sold in sets, and the top thereof included this sticker, indicating where it was made.  The top edge includes a fringe, and likewise the bottom edge includes a fringe.  Prohibition inspired textiles like this one are a favorite amongst collectors.     

The 18th Amendment was ratified on January 29th, 1919 and stated the following:

Section 1. After one year from the ratification of this article the manufacture, sale, or transportation of intoxicating liquors within, the importation thereof into, or the exportation thereof from the United States and all the territory subject to the jurisdiction thereof for beverage purposes is hereby prohibited.

Section 2. The Congress and the several States shall have concurrent power to enforce this article by appropriate legislation.

Section 3. This article shall be inoperative unless it shall have been ratified as an amendment to the Constitution by the legislatures of the several States, as provided in the Constitution, within seven years from the date of the submission hereof to the States by the Congress.

The National Prohibition Act was enacted to carry out the 18th Amendment’s intent.  Wayne Wheeler of the Anti-Saloon League drafted the bill, and in it, he clarified the meaning of “intoxicating liquors” and provided penalties associated with the 18th Amendment.  The National Prohibition Act is often referred to as the Volstead Act, named after Andrew Volstead, who managed the legislation and who was the Chair of the House Judiciary Committee.

The 18th Amendment and the National Prohibition Act were repealed in 1933 by the 21st Amendment.  Some states continued statewide prohibition after 1933, but by 1966, every state had abandoned their prohibition efforts.  Since then, alcohol controls have been managed at the local level.        

Conservation Process: This kerchief 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 kerchief, it was first washed in a standard wash and then in a dye setting wash. The kerchief is positioned behind Optium Museum Acrylic.

Frame: This kerchief is in an multitiered frame with an outer walnut layer and an inner gilded layer. It dates to between 1860 and 1890.

Condition Report: The kerchief includes some minor age-appropriate toning. It is in excellent condition.

Collectability Level: The Good – Perfect for Beginning Collectors and Gifts
Date of Origin: 1920-1933