1926 GAR (Grand Army of the Republic) 60th National Encampment Medal – Des Moines, Iowa

Front Image Description: The front of this medal features a portrait of John B. Inman, who served as the Commander-in-Chief of the Grand Army of the Republic (GAR). The inscription around the edge reads “COMMANDER IN CHIEF JOHN B. INMAN.” Inman’s likeness is depicted wearing a hat with the GAR insignia, representing his leadership of the organization that was composed of Union veterans from the Civil War.

Back Image Description: The reverse side of the medal bears the inscription “60th Nat’l Encampment Des Moines, IA. Sept. 1926,” surrounded by a laurel wreath. The National Encampment was an annual meeting of the GAR, bringing together veterans from across the country to commemorate their service and maintain the camaraderie forged during the war.

Historical Significance: The Grand Army of the Republic (GAR) was founded in 1866 as a fraternal organization for Union veterans of the Civil War. The organization played a significant role in advocating for veterans’ benefits, including pensions and the establishment of soldiers’ homes. The GAR also helped foster a sense of national unity and remembrance through their annual encampments, which served as both reunions and public celebrations of the Union’s victory.

This particular medal commemorates the 60th National Encampment held in Des Moines, Iowa, in September 1926.By this time, the GAR was declining in membership as the veteran population aged, making these medals significant reminders of the organization’s once-prominent role in American society. Medals like this one were often worn by attendees or given as keepsakes, serving as symbols of their enduring connection to their comrades and the cause for which they fought.

Dimensions: Based on the image provided, the dimensions of the GAR Encampment Medal are approximately 1.5 inches in diameter.

Description: This original 1926 medal commemorates the 60th National Encampment of the Grand Army of the Republic (GAR) held in Des Moines, Iowa. The front of the medal features a portrait of John B. Inman, Commander-in-Chief of the GAR, while the reverse side bears the inscription “60th Nat’l Encampment Des Moines, IA. Sept. 1926” surrounded by a laurel wreath. The GAR was a vital organization for Union veterans of the Civil War, advocating for their rights and preserving the memory of their service. This medal serves as a tangible reminder of the camaraderie and enduring legacy of the Union veterans who gathered for this significant event.

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