Historical information

This badge has been issued by the Victorian branch of the Manchester Unity Independent Order of OddFellows. This is a benefit society owned by members who assist other members in times of illness or unemployment. Originally founded in Manchester, England, the M.U.I.O.O.F. started in Melbourne in 1840. The Warrnambool branch was founded in 1860.

Significance

This badge has no known local provenance but Warrnambool members of the M.U.I.O.O.F. would probably have worn such a badge in the past so it is kept as a memento of those times.

Physical description

Gold metal badge in a shield shape with royal blue enamel with text as a banner across the top and again at the bottom . An inner shield contains a cross in red with five stars . The four corners each contain a symbol .

Inscriptions & markings

MANCHESTER UNITY IOOF . Victoria at the top of the badge. Makers name Newman is stamped on the back.