Order of Foresters banner (reverse)
Haddington’s Lamp of Lothian Court was formed in 1865. Three years later Haddington became a district headquarters for local Forester Courts. By 1928, for example, they oversaw ten courts.
This reverse of this banner is typical of many carried by friendly societies. Two Foresters look on as an ailing brother is comforted by his wife and another Forester. Two legends sit above and below the roundel: ‘I WAS SICK AND YE VISITED ME’ and ‘COMBINED TO HELP ONE ANOTHER’.
Giant marching banners were the prized possessions of many friendly societies and trades unions, a tradition which continues today. Their form was standardised through the dominance of the firm of Tutill, whose style was copied by Victorian and Edwardian competitors. Although easily damaged by wind, rain and poor storage, many have survived.
Museum id no. 2002.0438.001
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