The official medallion for Woodsmoke this year is a representation of a gorget, which were crescent-shaped metal pendants worn around the neck on a chain, ribbon, or leather thong. Originally, the gorget was designed to protect the wearer’s throat from sword slashes, but in the 18th and 19th centuries became an indication of the wearer’ rank, or that he was on duty. Native American Indians of the Cherokee, Creek, Choctaw, and Chickasaw tribes also wore gorgets to symbolize their rank, authority, and leadership in their tribes. The featured image for this post shows the Creek chief Osceola wearing a triple gorget. The picture below is of a young Colonel George Washington wearing a gorget during the French and Indian War.
Welcome to Woodsmoke Rendezvous! 