Red Cross Agricultural Fund badge
Production date
1939-1945
Description
Red Cross Agricultural Fund badge, with the mark of St John over the emblem.
Collection Type
Objects
Media/Materials
History
The Red Cross Agricultural Fund was formed to secure the help of those working in the countryside. The Fund supported a variety of initiatives, including sales of flowers and livestock. By 1945 the Agriculture Fund had over 18,000 local fundraising committees in rural areas around the country. The Milk Marketing Board arranged for milk producers to give a regular voluntary levy from their milk cheques and livestock and poultry breeders, allotment holders, Young Farmers Clubs, brewers and maltsters, all contributed in special ways. School children formed ‘onion clubs’ to grow extra onions for soldiers, sailors and airmen, in excess of the planned quota for civilian use. A considerable tonnage of onions was produced and sold to the Armed Forces, the proceeds going to the Red Cross Agriculture Fund.
When the fund reached £5 million, five red oak trees were planted by members of the Royal Family in Windsor Great Park. A further four oaks were planted in the shape of a cross when the Fund closed in 1945. King George selected the following inscription for a plaque at the site: “Through God’s great grace, through strength of English oak, we have preserved our faith, our throne, our land; Now, with our freedom saved from tyrant’s yoke, we plant these trees. Remember why they stand.”
When the fund reached £5 million, five red oak trees were planted by members of the Royal Family in Windsor Great Park. A further four oaks were planted in the shape of a cross when the Fund closed in 1945. King George selected the following inscription for a plaque at the site: “Through God’s great grace, through strength of English oak, we have preserved our faith, our throne, our land; Now, with our freedom saved from tyrant’s yoke, we plant these trees. Remember why they stand.”
Catalogue Number
0566/29