BRITISH CONSERVATISM AND THE PRIMROSE LEAGUE ... - ideals

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four levels were visible, both to the public at large and the
individuals involved.
Any member might achieve the highest level, Knight Imperial
or
Dame of the LGC, simply by paying a guinea annual subscription. In
addition the Dames were responsible for contributing yearly to their
respective Habitations.
Participation within the executive, however,
at both the local
and particularly the Central Office, was more
selective in character, often determined by an individual's privileged
social and economic background. Finally, it must be noted that while
many masonic lodges were involved
in dissident or even revolutionary
activity, members of the Primrose League were charged with maintaining
the existing political
order and with actively resisting reformist
policies.
All their efforts were geared to this end, whether
manifested through electoral
canvassing or by promotion of social
entertainments.
It is perhaps with respect to medals that the Primrose League
reveals its truly modern character.
of decorations existed by 1901.36
At least thirty-seven variations
They included full dress badges,
studs and broaches, and special
service bars to denote election work or
efforts to establish Habitations.
A wide variety of other medals were
36 The analysis provided is based on a fifteen page pamphlet
describing the badges offered for sale through the Primrose League,
circa 1901. A copy is contained in the Scottish Branch Minute Book
records.