"Set x 10 Squadron A Brass Blazer Buttons Made in England"
$300
2 Frontal: 7/8"D
8 Sleeve: 5/8"D
Squadron A refers to the historic cavalry unit of New York City's Upper East Side.
A stone plaque with the squadron's cry "Boutez en avant!", translated variously as "Press forward!" or simply "Charge!", is located on the wall at Madison Avenue.
Squadron A originated with a group of wealthy young gentlemen with great interest in equestrian sport who formed themselves into a group called the 'New York Hussars". They adopted blue uniforms and headgear for ceremonial purposes that mimicked Eurasian fashions dating back to the Napoleonic and Crimean Wars. In an effort to become more professional and militarized, they extended membership to Captain Charles F. Roe, 20-year veteran of the US Army Cavalry, who inspired its membership with the cavalry spirit and military discipline. His efforts were successful to the point that in 1889 53 men were mustered into the New York State National Guard as Troop A, becoming the cavalry arm of the Empire State. Squadron A was officially founded
Squadron A was often called out from its Madison Avenue Armory, which occupied an entire city block between 94th and 95th Streets, to escort presidents, governors, and foreign dignitaries. The Squadron was known for its fine riding skills and elegant uniforms, which it showed off in parades at the National Horse Show
In peacetime between the wars and after their ending, the Squadron was the focus of active social life. Aside from official ceremonial duties, there was indoor polo in the Armory every Saturday night followed by a black tie-dance and many Sunday afternoon tea dances.
Distinguished members:
C. P. H. Gilbert, architect from New York
Karl Frederick, 1920 Olympic competitor and president of the National Rifle Association
Guy Sands-Pingot, Brigadier General, USAR
Fred Thrower, Navy Lieutenant, USN, and New York television executive who created the Yule Log (TV program)
Edgar A. Knapp , Rough Rider, 1st Vol Cavalry Cuba
Christopher Ross, sculptor, designer and collector from New York