I didn't know much at all about the history of "The Band of Hope" when I purchased this early 20th century hand-drawn postcard; I just loved this young cast of characters, and also how much one might project into and onto the drawing and text at the present moment, when social gathering and the term hope itself are such charged and contested things.
The Band of Hope referred to here is a temperance organization for working-class children founded in Leeds in 1847. Geared specifically toward rescuing 'unfortunates' from lives blighted by drink, all members, starting at age 6, took a pledge of total abstinence and met once a week to listen to lectures and participate in activities. The organization grew to more than 3 million members at its height at the turn of the century.
3 1/2" x 5 1/2" and in great antique condition. Ink and crayon I believe on watercolor type card. On the back, a brief note to Flo, I believe, from its maker.
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