#15 • Canadian Restaurant Association Medal Presented to Colonel Harland Sanders

Part of The Colonel Sanders Artifact Collection (live auction by The Menish Group Auction & Real Estate)

High bid $950.00

Status: Sold

DESCRIPTION Large gold-tone presentation medal suspended from a matching chain, featuring a raised portrait of Samuel de Champlain and the inscription "Order of Good Hosts" to the obverse. The reverse displays the emblem of the Canadian Restaurant Association with the engraved presentation inscription, "Presented to Col. Harland Sanders." Retains original suspension loop and chain. HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE This medal reflects Colonel Sanders' longstanding influence within the restaurant and hospitality industries beyond the United States. By the latter half of the twentieth century, Sanders had become one of the most recognizable figures in food service, and his contributions to restaurant franchising and hospitality were acknowledged by organizations throughout North America. STORY & CONTEXT Named for Samuel de Champlain, the "Order of Good Hosts" references one of the earliest hospitality traditions in Canadian history. The presentation of this medal to Colonel Sanders by the Canadian Restaurant Association demonstrates the respect and recognition he received from industry peers. Such honors illustrate Sanders' role not only as the founder of Kentucky Fried Chicken but also as a prominent ambassador for the restaurant industry during his lifetime. PROVENANCE Originating from the Blackwood Hall collection, this medal remained within the possession of the Settle family following their acquisition of the property directly from Colonel and Claudia Sanders. The medal was preserved among other personal effects, awards, and commemorative items associated with Colonel Sanders prior to its public offering. CONDITION NOTES Light wear consistent with age and handling. Surface wear and minor oxidation present to the medal and chain. Enamel decoration on the reverse remains intact with expected age-related wear.