United States. The Order Of Colonial Lords Of Manors In America Medal In Gold, C.1918

Instituted 1911. A 14kt Gold oval-shaped medal, surmounted by a crown, centre obverse presents a blue enamelled X, with plain gold in each quadrant, with a white enamel surround inscribed in Gold THE ORDER OF COLONIAL LORDS OF MANORS IN AMERICA beginning at 6 o’clock, with a white enamel banner under the base inscribed NOBLESSE OBLIGE (Nobility Obligates), reverse is engraved ANNIE S. LEEDS and presents makers mark on reverse of crown B.B&B (Bailey, Banks & Biddle) 14K, on original ribbon with bar engraved MANOR OF GARDINER’S ISLAND, reverse of bar presents brooch pinback and is stamped B.B&B 14K, measures 33mm (w) x 47.5mm (h), weighs 15.5 grams including ribbon and bar, enamel chips to edge of banner scroll on each edge, otherwise enamels fully intact, minimal wear, very fine condition.

Footnote: The Association was founded in 1911 in New York. The mission of the order is to “research and preserve the history of patroonship, seigneuries and manor in Colonial North America as well as to permit historic preservation and education on colonial life.” The membership is by invitation only and is only offered to individuals with hereditary lineage to a colonial lord. The Manor of Gardiner’s Island was built in 1774, however, the land was granted to Lion Gardiner in 1639, and he was given the title ‘Lord of the Manor.’ The original house burnt down in 1947 and was rebuilt the same year by Sarah Diodati Gardiner. It is likely that Annie S. Leed is a descendant of the Gardiner family.