Sign, Grand Army of the Republic, Webster Post #9, 91.75"h x 48.5"w x 1.875"d.
Brick Store Museum Collection, 150.

As pictured below, this large wooden sign hung on the Main Street facade of Kennebunk, Maine's Webster Post #9 of the Grand Army of the Republic. The building, known as the Pythian block, is still in existence but today is home to shops and offices.

The Grand Army of the Republic (or "G.A.R.") was a fraternal organization for Union Army veterans who had served in the American Civil War. It was founded in 1866 in Illinois by Benjamin F. Stephenson on the principles of "Fraternity, Charity and Loyalty" originally as a way for veterans to maintain contact with one another. All members wore military-style uniforms to meetings. The organization played a role on the national political stage long after the Civil War, noted especially for its relief work and pension legislation. Five members were elected President of the United States and, for a time, endorsement from the G.A.R. was critical to receiving nomination on the Republican ticket. Among the G.A.R.'s activities from 1866 to 1949 was an annual "National Encampment" serving as a reunion among members. The G.A.R. was formally dissolved in 1956, upon the death of its last member. G.A.R. posts were in every state, and there were more than 160 in Maine.

Records indicate that the Kennebunk G.A.R. Post sign was repainted and repaired in 1887 by E. F. Densmore, self-described as a "Kennebunk House, Sign & Fresco Artist." The sign itself is a replica of the front of a G.A.R. membership medal. The emblem on the star portion reads, "'Grand Army of the Republic / 1861-Veteran-1866". The five points of the star each feature a symbol: an anchor, crossed swords, crossed bayoneted muskets, crossed cannons, and a bugle. A sailor and soldier shake hands in front of Liberty/Lady Victory in the center of the star. Above the flag, an eagle clutches a saber in its talons and is perched atop crossed cannons, resting on a stack of cannon balls.

1897 photo of Kennebunk's GAR Webster Post #9. Brick Store Museum Collection, 89.I.101.

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