James Garfield Campaign Badge, 1880

Summary

James Garfield became the Republican Party's presidential nominee in 1880 only after the convention had deadlocked. Delegates could not decide among the three leading candidates and turned to Garfield--who did not seek the nomination--as a compromise candidate. He and his running mate Chester Arthur would face Democrat Winfield Hancock. Voters chose Garfield by the narrowest of margins--fewer than 7,500 votes.

James Garfield became the Republican Party's presidential nominee in 1880 only after the convention had deadlocked. Delegates could not decide among the three leading candidates and turned to Garfield--who did not seek the nomination--as a compromise candidate. He and his running mate Chester Arthur would face Democrat Winfield Hancock. Voters chose Garfield by the narrowest of margins--fewer than 7,500 votes.

Artifact

Badge

Date Made

1880

Creators

Unknown

Place of Creation

United States 

Location

Not on exhibit to the public.

Object ID

72.31.228

Credit

From the Collections of The Henry Ford.

Material

Shell
Brass (Alloy)
Iron (Metal)

Technique

Casting (Process)
Direct positive processes
Tintype (Process)

Color

Black-and-white (Colors)
Bronze (Color)

Dimensions

Width: 1.25 in

Length: 1.75 in

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