Happy New Year horseshoe plaque trivets

Stay yet, my friends, a moment stay—
Stay till the good old year,
So long companion of our way,
Shakes hands, and leaves us here.
Oh stay, oh stay,
One little hour, and then away.

by William Cullen Bryant (1794-1878) from “A Song for New Year’s Eve”

Happy New Year 1888 ~ cast iron, 6 1/2 x 4 1/8″, traces of original glitter.

On reverse: DESIGN PAT APL’D FOR BY C. J. HOAG

Happy New Year 1905 ~ cast iron, 6 x 3 7/8″.

The bear emblem might suggest a California origin.

Hole later drilled in center for wall mount.

Unsigned on reverse with original hanging hook.

Additional information about Horseshoe Plaque Trivets

● Antique horseshoe plaque trivets date from the late 1800’s through the early 1900’s, when fraternal orders were at their peak.

● Some were carnival prizes and still bear traces of glitter. Others were lodge favors, commemoratives or gifts.

● These trivets were cast through the lower ends of the horseshoe. If the molten iron didn’t completely fill the mold, the wing tips or beak of the eagle at the opposite end could appear to be unevenly cast.

● A trivet might appear to be brass if gilded paint was applied; be sure to check with a magnet- which will stick to cast iron.

● Avoid the temptation to refinish or remove traces of old paint and glitter, which add charm and evidence of age to these unique relics.

Related information

● Horseshoe plaque trivet styles and acronyms

● Volunteer Firemens Association NYC horseshoe plaque trivet

● Merry Christmas 1888 horseshoe plaque trivet

● YMCA horseshoe plaque trivet

● GUOOF ~ a rare Oddfellows variant