Two-sided ceremonial banner from Sellasias Organization. Scalloped edge and five loops for mounting at the top. Front: Cream satin with blue velvet overlay at top. Gold metal twisted threads embroidered to read Sellasias (in Greek), king's crown with blue velvet inlays, two hands shaking, Chicago, IL, and colored flowers and greenery and decorative elements. Reverse: Blue satin with white thread embroidery. In English, reads Greek Society, Sellasias, Organized Chicago, April 2, 1911, two shaking hands and decorative "rope." Gold thread fringe and two gold thread tassels at the bottom edge. Wooden dowel, wrapped in gold metal, with two hooks used for mounting.

Sellasias Organization, Chicago, IL, Organized April 2, 1911

This banner was used in parades, at dances and celebrations, outdoor picnics, and church functions. Members were from the Sellasia (Sparta) area in Southern Greece.
These immigrants felt the need for this type of organization, even though they were now in America. They kept the Greek language, customs, and religion alive by retaining their ethnicity.
Their generosity was vast, giving money and support to their ancestral heritage, helping to restore churches, building schools, and sending money and food during WWI and WWII.
The organization ceased to exist in the 1960s. Presently, there is an organization called the same name, but under a new charter.

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