Expanding a bit on PBK's reply, these were usually worn by veterans at functions of their "lodge". Typical was the Grand Army of the Republic, "G.A.R." - which had posts in many towns across the nation. The G.A.R. participated in local parades and other events, and had annual statewide meetings where this type of ladder badge would be appropriate. Delegates were chosen to attend the national conventions, and the badges would be used there. There were often silk ribbons (denoting the specific event) and a name plate (denoting the individual delegate) used in conjunction with this badge. The G.A.R., being a veteran's organization, disappeared as the last of the Civil War veterans passed away. John in ID