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Masonic Calling Cards
1895-1900
Maker not marked
Unidentified
paperstock
overall: .5 cubic ft.
Museum Purchase
A2010/30/1-463

Collection of 463 Masonic calling cards, mostly Knights Templar, with some from Shrine, Scottish Rite, Order of Eastern Star, and for women accompanying men in Knights Templar to an encampment; arranged by state that Mason was from--mostly Illinois and the mid-west; emblems on each card with Knights Templar or other Masonic symbols, including Mason's name, city, and state that Mason was from; women's cards and those by occupation identified in special categories at end of sequence.


Calling cards evolved in England and were an essential part of introductions, invitations, and visits. During the 1800s, Americans followed this Victorian tradition of using calling cards. They used them in calling upon their friends and relatives. This was proper etiquette for men and women of middle and upper classes and a method for screening those who were socially undesirable. Every gentleman and woman kept a ready supply of calling cards with them to distribute upon visits. Men and women's calling cards were generally simple in design. They gave the caller's name and often included the name of his gentleman's club, or fraternal organization. Masonic calling cards are a wonderful example of this.