Object Record
Images
Metadata
Object Name |
Badge, Cap |
Catalog Number |
1976.80.02a |
Maker |
N.S. Meyer, Inc. |
Date |
1900-1970 |
Material(s) |
Brass/Enamel |
Dimensions |
H-1.5 W-1.875 inches |
Description |
This is an oval shaped metal cap badge from the Kentucky Military Institute. The badge has a dull gold background edged with three cannon balls at the top, oak leaf wreath on each side and an unfurled banner with "KENTUCKY" at the bottom. In the center there is a dark blue enamel circle inside a gold enamel circle enclosing the dull gold emblem of the school of crossed rifles and "K", "M" and "I". The gold enamel circle has raised metallic lettering that reads "CHARACTER MAKES THE MAN" followed by a blunted arrow symbol. There are two stabilizing pointed posts welded to the back on each side and a centered screw post with nut fastener attached. There is a raised hallmark and lettering on the back that reads "N.S. MEYER, INC./ NEW YORK" below the center screw post. |
Notes |
The oldest private military preparatory school in the United States, the Kentucky Military Institute was founded in 1845 by General Robert T.P. Allen and chartered in 1847 by the Commonwealth of Kentucky. Over the years the school was located in Frankfort, Mt. Sterling, and Lyndon, and operated a winter campus in Venice, Florida. It closed in 1973, a victim of rising costs and dissatisfaction with the military in the aftermath of the Vietnam War. |
Collection |
Shelbyville Military Sales Collection |
Subjects |
Badges Military academies Military schools Military training Military uniforms Schools Schools, Private |
Search Terms |
Kentucky Military Institute (KMI) Military Uniforms Military |
Physical Holder |
Kentucky Historical Society - KHS |