Objects

Viewing Record 13 of 18
Previous Record  Next Record
Switch Views: Lightbox | Image List | List

Political Handkerchief for William H. Taft (1857-1930)
1908
Maker not marked
USA
Lithograph on linen
overall: 18 x 18 in.; frame: 19 3/4 x 20 3/8 in.
Gift of Robert A. Frank
2001.067.33

Political campaign handkerchief for William H. Taft (1857-1930); white ground with black bust portrait of William H. Taft in center, elephant in right corner carrying banner that reads "A Big Man / For / A Big Office / And / A Big Party / To / Elect Him", red, white, blue and black colors; wooden frame with glass.


In 1908, Republican William H. Taft (1857-1930) was a reluctant campaigner, calling the period between his nomination and his election "the most uncomfortable four months of my life." The cartoon on this handkerchief gave a positive spin to Taft's obesity, suggesting that it took a big man for the big job of U.S. president.