Frame Size (H x L): 9.5” x 11.5”
Ribbon Size (H x L): 1.5” x 3.5”

Offered is a rare “Votes for Women” ribbon.  The field is yellow, and the verbiage is in all black caps.  Yellow was the primary color in the women’s suffrage movement in the US, and was combined with various other colors, though in most instances was combined with black.  In England, violet and green were the primary colors.  

In 1848, Lucretia Mott and Elizabeth Cady Stanton organized the first women’s rights convention in Seneca Falls, New York.  As a result of this meeting in Stanton’s hometown, the document containing a declaration for women’s suffrage, right to education, and right to employment was drafted.  Over the next 50 years, numerous women’s conventions were hosted to bring strength to the movement in masses.

Though initially targeted as a state-by-state movement, it was ultimately recognized that only an amendment to the Constitution would grant all women the right to vote.  Amendments were introduced in 1878 and 1914, both of which were defeated.  By 1918, both political parties were committed to women’s suffrage, in part based on the major role women played in World War I.  As such, in January of 1918 and June of 1919, an amendment was passed by two-thirds majorities in the House and Senate, respectively.  On August 18th, 1920, Tennessee became the 36th state to ratify the amendment, giving the two-thirds of state legislators necessary to ratify the amendment.  On August 26th, the Nineteenth Amendment became part of the Constitution, and read as follows:

The right of citizens of the United States to vote shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any State on account of sex.  Congress shall have power to enforce this article by appropriate legislation.

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

Frame: The antique frame is substantial and comprises two parts: an outer walnut layer and an inner gilt liner.  It dates to between 1860 and 1890.    

Condition Report: This ribbon is in wonderful condition.

Collectability Level: The Good – Perfect for Beginning Collectors and Gifts
Date of Origin: 1913-1920