Re: Beaded OA Sash
Freemason@AOL.COM
Sun, 19 Jun 1994 10:37:15 EDT
A lot of bandwidth has been used in this discussion on the appropriateness of
the beaded OA sash on the BSA uniform, and I'm now throwing my $0.02 in. I
looked in the Insignia Control Guide, and nowhere could I find a prohibition
on the wearing of a beaded OA sash.
The only reference I could find was a description of the OA sash, and a
prohibition of "sash backs" and "legend strips" on the OA sash. Now, as to
this item, I think that all OA members are aware of what a "legend strip" is
- for those who don't, it is a pictogram of the legend of the creation of the
Order by Chingatchgook for the prevention of war between neighboring tribes
of Native Americans (possible allusion to Confederation of Nations in NY?
Considering that Goodman and Edson borrowed heavily from "Hiawatha" and "Last
of the Mohicans" for their mythology - but that is fodder for another
thread).
I have seen several of these legend strips, both in beaded and embroidered
form - they range from simple beauty to quite garish, depending on the
weaver's interpretation. Having said that, I realize the Official policy is
not to wear them on the uniform or OA sash. I am aware of this policy for at
least 25 years.
However, I have never seen an official prohibition on the wearing of beaded
sashes, as long as they did not include the legend strip as an integral part
of the sash. Matter of fact, I remember Grey Owl carrying partially beaded
strips, consisting of only the arrow (and bars) specifically to sew onto the
regular OA sash. Looks like crap, but I have seen these around.
I like the beaded sash at OA ceremonies and official functions. I think it
lends itself to the spirit of the occasion. However, they're fragile
(couldn't you see snagging one of these on a bramble bush - AAARRRGGGHHH!),
hot as those plastic sash preservers that Pab sells and trades :), and they
weigh a TON, as well as being rather expensive. THX for reminding me - I
promised myself years ago that if I ever attained Vigil, I would buy one for
me - WITHOUT the legend strip.
And no, I don't think I will be wearing one at any uniform inspections,
either ;)
YiS, WWW,
Randy Spradling, P.E. (and it's been awhile since my closure was posted)
Assistant District Commissioner Treasure Coast District, Gulfstream
Council(FL) Aal-Pa-Tah #237 Eagle Scout (1971)Vigil Honor (1974)(Thal-Coo-Zyo
#457)(Sukeu Woapalanne-Black Eagle)
Life Member Alpha Phi Omega Mu Tau Chapter(#589-139879/Life#5915) (WV
Tech)(Spring 1975)
I "used" to be an Owl... (SR-5).
Civil/Traffic Engineer in my spare time
<FREEMASON@AOL.com>
I >>>----I>----<> I
Terry Howerton Sakima Group, Inc. SCOUTER Magazine Kansas City | 
