Tag Day was a fundraising initiative established in December 1914 in an effort to support British and Irish families whose fathers, brothers and sons were fighting in The Great War. Patriotic tags and badges were an important form of fundraising during World War 1. Many tags and badges included patriotic sayings such as ‘Peace and Goodwill’, ‘Lest We Forget’ and ‘For our brave ally’. They came in many shapes and sizes and were made with many different materials such as tin, felt, fabric and ribbon.
The aim of Tag Day for Ipswich residents was to donate money through the buying and selling of patriotic tags, buttons and badges. These funds were sent overseas to inspire hope and comfort to families at Christmas. The Ipswich community aimed to raise 1000 pounds through badge and tag sales as well as general donations. Each badge or tag cost 3 pence which is the modern day equivalent of $1.35.
As part of the Tidings of Comfort & Joy program being held throughout the month, Ipswich Central Library held a demonstration and DIY workshop on 4 November 2014. Under the tutelage of local artist Annamaria Mays Vermeer, the lucky workshop participants produced some wonderful creations to mark the almost 100 years that have passed since the Tag Day campaign of 1914.
Some of the Tags and Badges created at the Tidings of Comfort & Joy demonstration session
Participants at the Tidings of Comfort & Joy demonstration session