Name/Title
Elks tooth charm mounting of Robert Ames, c. 1930sEntry/Object ID
2024.90.15Description
Acc. No. 24.90.15
Subject Category: Citizens of Alameda, Fraterntities, Elks
Date or Period: c. 1930s
Object: charm mounting
Description: gold pendant or charm with a ring at the top, in the shape of an oblong cap that is open at one end with 2 scallops, and has an embossed head of an elk on one side, and the letters R.H.A. and number 1015 engraved on the other side. A tiny pin protrudes from the back halfway into the cavity. No maker's mark.
Size: L 1/2 inch by W 1/2 inch.
History of Objects: Elk tooth mounting of Robert Harding Ames reflecting Alameda's Benevolent and Protective Order Elk's Lodge, (B.P.O.E.) 1015. Sometime between the founding of the order in 1868 and continuing into the 1930's, it became popular for Elks members to wear a genuine elk's tooth, as a charm, or watch fob or pin. The practice fell out of fashion after protections were put in place to protect elks. No tooth was donated with the mounting.
Donor: Estate of Helena B. Ames
Donation Date: 03/21/2006
Catalog Completion Date: 11/29/2024
