Editor’s Note
Made in 1893. More than 130 years later, it’s still here.
This extraordinary ribbon badge comes from Passaic, New Jersey’s early Slovak immigrant community, created for a women’s society identified by the inscription “VERNE SESTRY SLOVENSKE,” or approximately “Faithful Slovak Sisters.” Branch No. 12 is marked directly on the piece, alongside ornate metallic script reading “Irena.”
The faded blue satin, hand worked metallic trim, coiled tassels, staining, and patina aren’t imperfections to erase. They are evidence of a life that began in the 19th century. Someone pinned this to her clothing in 1893. It survived generations, changing homes and hands while remaining remarkably intact. Now, 133 years later, it enters the Cirque Nouveau archive as a genuine fragment of American immigrant and women’s social history.
Details
• Dated 1893
• Antique Slovak Women’s Society Badge
• Branch No. 12, Passaic, New Jersey
• “VERNE SESTRY SLOVENSKE” Lettering
• Decorative “Irena” Script
• Pale Blue Satin Rosette
• Royal Blue Center
• Gold Tone Metallic Trim & Coiled Tassels
• Original Bar Pin
• Ceremonial / Fraternal Regalia
• Slovak American Historical Collectible
Condition
Remarkable survivor with substantial authentic age. Staining, fading, fraying, tarnish, and losses to portions of the lettering are present after more than a century. Left intentionally uncleaned and unpolished to preserve its history. Please review all photographs closely.
Shipping & Returns
Curated by Cirque Nouveau and ships free from Seattle. No returns, reach out with any questions! Thank you.
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