“Welcome United Spanish War Veterans” Antique Banner, circa 1902

Description

Presented is a printed linen welcome banner for veterans of the United Spanish War. The white banner is printed with ‘Welcome United Spanish War Veterans” in red block lettering, with a printed design to mimic the three piece Spanish American War Veterans medal with ribbon, issued to members of the United Spanish War Veterans.
At the top of the printed medal design is a red and blue American eagle in mid-flight within a laurel wreath in front of a shield with vertical stripes and five-pointed stars. Below is a ribbon in the shape of an American flag hanging vertically, with thirteen stripes and thirteen stars. Attached to the bottom of the ribbon is a blue piece consisting of a cavalry saber, an infantry rifle, and a naval anchor, all crossed. Attached to this piece is the final component of the medal which is a bronze Spanish American War cross, with the four arms reading: " CUBA/ PORTO RICO/ U.S.A/ PHILIPPINE ISLANDS". This cross also contains the dates "1898-1902" with the words "SPANISH WAR VETERANS" surrounding a small circular military scene.
Soon after the Spanish–American War ended, in early 1899, discharged veterans formed fraternal societies to keep in touch with their former comrades. All military personnel who served during the Spanish-American War and had been honorably discharged or continued to serve were eligible to become members of the organization. In addition, non-military personnel who had served in the war were eligible to join. The main objectives of the United Spanish War Veterans were “to unite fraternally members of the United States Military who served in the Spanish-American War…, [to] honor the memory of the fallen comrades, [to] assist former comrades and their families… and [to] perpetuate the memory of the Spanish American War."