Lot 2957

Description

Orange Wesleyan Band Of Hope, The Young Australia, undated (c1880), in white metal (38mm) by Stokes & Martin, pierced hole at top edge. A very rare temperance medal, extremely fine.

The Band of Hope was a temperance organisation for working-class children. It was founded in Leeds, England in 1847. Members were enrolled from the age of six, taking the pledge of abstinence and were taught the evils of drink. In the Band of Hope Journal and Australian Home Companion Saturday 11 September 1858, No 19, Vol III, p16 is written, 'Orange. A Band of Hope is about to be inaugurated in this township, under the superintendence of Mr. O.A.Snow. We heartily wish it success. It is most gratifying to us to have to record the formation of so many new societies in various country townships.'