The Most Beautiful Swiss Patch From Tomo Chi-Chi 119

Tomo Chi-Chi 119 R2

Tomo Chi-Chi 119 R2

The Tomo Chi-Chi Lodge 119-R2 is, in my opinion, one of the nicest examples of Swiss embroidery from 119. I might be a little biased, as I was just a Cub Scout when these patches were issued to my dad and older brothers, and I didn’t get my hands on one (and corresponding flap) until I was in my late 20’s. Even though the patch is only 25 years old, it has its share of stories with it. They were initially pre-ordered at a cost of $8, but when they came in, the cost was $12 per patch from the patch company. Instead of getting individuals to pay $4 more, the lodge covered the difference and ended up losing money on the patches. There were two runs of the patch, the second run done after the first were sold out. The patch was designed by Timothy L. Lester, but when he submitted the design, it only had “1938-1988” across the bottom of the patch. The current Lodge chief at the time, Peter Mastopoulos included the “50th Anniversary” between the two dates, not thinking much of it. The story goes that Timmy was pretty mad at Pete for changing his design. This would not be the last time that Timmy had his design changed.

Submitted by Lodge Editor Alan McDonald

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