Netherlands Order / Decoration 1872–1897 Ginneken – Broederschap van de Heilige Familie, personalized commemorative cross

Netherlands, Ginneken – Broederschap van de Heilige Familie, personalized commemorative cross, dated 1872–1897

Obverse:
Cross pattée with suspension loop. Engraved “1872” on the upper arm, “H. Familie Ginneken” across the horizontal arms, and “1897” on the lower arm.

Reverse:
Plain cross with engraved name “G. Simons”.

Material: Silver (unmarked)
Suspension: Loop and ring
Ribbon: Red ribbon, folded; original, with visible wear and ageing
Edge: Plain

Condition:
Fine. Surface wear and light scratches consistent with age. Even toning. Ribbon worn, with discolouration and fraying.

Historical Context:
This cross is a locally engraved and personalized commemorative piece associated with the Roman Catholic Broederschap van de Heilige Familie in Ginneken (North Brabant). Such confraternities were widespread in the southern Netherlands during the 19th century and played an important role in parish religious life.

The dates “1872–1897” indicate a 25-year period and most likely refer to a jubilee or commemorative moment within the local confraternity. The engraved name “G. Simons” identifies the recipient or owner; the surname is historically attested in Ginneken during this period, although the individual cannot be identified with certainty based on available records.

The piece is not an official state decoration, but a privately commissioned or locally issued religious cross, typical for parish-based devotional associations.

Remarks:
Hand-engraved inscriptions; unique, personalized piece with clear local historical context.

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