Junior Order of United American Mechanics Candlestand1875–192570 × 12 1/2 × 12 1/2"MetalGift of Kendra and Allan Daniel
2015.1.15401555545161Artist unidentifiedFurniture/FurnishingsUnited StatesThree Dimensional WorksFraternal Art and ObjectsThis candlestand was used at the Junior Order of United American Mechanics (Jr. OUAM) Golden Star Court No. 640 to provide light during rituals and other events. Formed in 1853, the group pursued nativist aims during an era of high immigration. The stand shows the Jr. OUAM’s best-known symbol, a square and compasses with a flexed arm in the center, holding a hammer. The shield shape recalls the Great Seal of the United States, and the pro-American stance of the group is reinforced by the lettering along the sides that spells out its values: virtue, liberty, and patriotism.
Stacy C. Hollander, "Junior Order of United American Mechanics Candlestand," exhibition label for Mystery and Benevolence: Masonic and Odd Fellows Folk Art from the Kendra and Allan Daniel Collection. Stacy C. Hollander, curator. New York: American Folk Art Museum, 2016.
Object information is a work in progress and may be updated with new research. Records are reviewed and revised, and the American Folk Art Museum welcomes additional information.
To help improve this record, please email photoservices@folkartmuseum.org18751925 2015 1 154 This candlestand was used at the Junior Order of United American Mechanics (Jr. OUAM) Golden Star Court No. 640 to provide light during rituals and other events. Formed in 1853, the group pursued nativist aims during an era of high immigration. The stand shows the Jr. OUAM’s best-known symbol, a square and compasses with a flexed arm in the center, holding a hammer. The shield shape recalls the Great Seal of the United States, and the pro-American stance of the group is reinforced by the lettering along the sides that spells out its values: virtue, liberty, and patriotism.
Stacy C. Hollander, "Junior Order of United American Mechanics Candlestand," exhibition label for Mystery and Benevolence: Masonic and Odd Fellows Folk Art from the Kendra and Allan Daniel Collection. Stacy C. Hollander, curator. New York: American Folk Art Museum, 2016.
Object information is a work in progress and may be updated with new research. Records are reviewed and revised, and the American Folk Art Museum welcomes additional information.
To help improve this record, please email photoservices@folkartmuseum.org