Sobering Thoughts, Spiritual Beliefs
Alcohol consumption is the subject of one of the longest running public
debates in America. Beginning in the early 19th century, people formed temperance
societies to combat the evils of "demon rum." By 1900 the
militant Women’s Christian Temperance Union was leading a national
campaign for the complete prohibition of alcohol. Today, its legacy lives
on in "Just Say No" ads and the red ribbon bows sponsored by
MADD (Mothers Against Drunk Driving).
Within religious organizations,
specialized groups developed to care for the needs of body and spirit
among members of both the congregation and the larger community. In
Michigan's early days, some churches established missions
to serve members of their faith and reach out to Native Americans.
Take a closer look at the eight artifacts related to the temperance
movement or to religious groups. Click on the object in the case or on its
name.
["Daughters of Temperance" Lithograph]
["The Saloon Is Going" Pamphlet]
[Prohibition Prize Medal]
[Sunday School Convention Pin]
[Men's Club Dinner Program]
[1864
U. S. Christian Commission Pin]
[1849 Mission Bell
(shown at right, above)]
[Minister's Stole (not shown)]
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