Crosses for female servants were donated by Grand Duchess Louise by decree of February 16, 1876. It should be noted the great importance of the status of female servants for the family and the long-term and faithful performance of duties. At first, crosses were awarded in 3 stages for 25, 40 and 50 years of faithful service in one official respect. In 1905, this level was extended for more than 60 years. Crosses for 50 and 60 years were silver gilded with a laurel wreath between the cross sleeves. For more than 40 years, the crosses were silver gilded without a wreath. For more than 25 years of faithful performance of duty, the cross was awarded silver. The awards were held by the Baden Women's Club. Applications had to be submitted to the Baden Women's Association by October 15. Award Day - December 3, the birthday of Grand Duchess Louise. Karlsruhe chose May 21 - the birthday of the former Grand Duchess Sofia. The cross was worn either on a chain or on a black velvet ribbon. Crosses were not refundable, but had to be returned upon receipt of a higher level. The cross shown here for more than 40 years of faithful and innocent service in one family was awarded only 429 times. Silver crosses have won many more awards. Here, 2177 crosses are indicated as the award number.
Elongated cross made of gilded silver. Similar to the shape of the Celtic cross. The transverse arms are slightly expanded towards the ends and have raised, inwardly graduated edges. In the center is a round medallion. In the corners of the cruciform sleeves are round holes with a wide edge, twice furrowed. The transverse arms in this area are adapted to the rounding. On the upper cruciform shoulder, a parallel eye with a ribbon ring is soldered.
Front side:
Downside:
Tape:
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Cross for female servants for 40 years
Reverse: a cross for female servants for 40 years
Awards of World War II