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Image courtesy of the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum.
Image courtesy of the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum.
National Recovery Administration (NRA) Member Wall Hanging
Image courtesy of the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum.
Image courtesy of the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum.

National Recovery Administration (NRA) Member Wall Hanging

Artifact IDMO 1976.66
Object Type Hanging, Wall
Maker
Dateca. 1933-1935
Mediumtextile (felt, silk)
Dimensionsoverall H 30 1/4 in x W 21 1/2 in (76.8 cm x 54.6 cm )
Physical DescriptionA red felt wall hanging, or banner, featuring the National Recovery Administration (NRA) Blue Eagle logo. At the center, within a white circle, is the blue eagle symbol consisting of a solid blue eagle holding a gear in its right talon and bolts of lightning in its left talon, and the words "NRA / MEMBER / U.S." in red and blue text. Additional words in white text, "WE DO OUR PART," runs below the logo. The top edge of the wall hanging has five white felt tabs, and the bottom edge has a white fringe.

The reverse side of the wall hanging is lined with bright blue silk.
Historical NoteA key element of FDR’s economic revival plan during his First 100 Days in office was the National Industrial Recovery Administration (NRA).

The NRA sought to end cut-throat competition that was reducing wages and prices to disastrous levels. It encouraged businesses in hundreds of industries to create codes of “fair competition.” The codes set maximum hours and minimum wages, guaranteed union rights, and prohibited child labor. Companies adopting the codes were exempt from anti-trust laws.

Participating businesses, consumers, and individuals proudly displayed the NRA’s blue eagle symbol on a variety of items, like this wall hanging, to proclaim their participation in the program and show their support.

The NRA was also promoted in parades and rallies that became community events. These activities gave Americans a psychological lift, but the NRA proved ineffective. Its codes were unwieldy and, sometimes, ludicrous—including regulations for industries like shoulder pads, dog food, and burlesque theaters. Many codes favored larger businesses and encouraged monopolistic practices that hindered economic recovery. Few mourned when the NRA was declared unconstitutional in 1935.
Additional Details
National Archives Catalog CollectionFranklin D. Roosevelt Library Museum Collection (National Archives Identifier 735948)
National Archives Catalog SeriesArtifacts Relating to the New Deal (National Archives Identifier 750981)
Use Restriction StatusUnrestrictedCopyrightReproduction or other use of these holdings or images thereof is unrestricted.
In Collection(s)
Not on view