United States. A Society Of The Army Of Santiago Membership Cross In Gold 1898

Solid Gold with red, green and white enamels, weighing 21.6 grams inclusive of its ribboned pinback, marked "PAT. 7-4-99" and maker marked "B B & B" (Bailey, Banks & Biddle of Philadelphia) on the ring, name engraved "Charles S. Frank. No 775." in running script on the reverse centrepiece, 38.5 mm x 44 mm, original ribbon with brooch pinback, of very fine quality manufacture, intact enamels, extremely fine.

Footnote: The Society of the Army of Santiago de Cuba was established with membership open to U.S. Army and Volunteer officers and enlisted men who served in the Battle of Santiago, Cuba during the Spanish American War. Their stated purpose was to record and honor the history and memory of the campaign that began on June 14, 1898, which resulted in the surrender on July 17, 1898 of the Spanish Army at the City of Santiago de Cuba. Membership was open to those who served, their direct lineal descendant, and membership by inheritance as descendant of a soldier killed in the battle. There was an honorary membership as well. Notable Society members include Major Generals Sumner and Chaffe, and Colonel Theodore Roosevelt.