FAQ's

Here are some of our most frequently asked questions about DeMoulin Items.  If you have a different question, you can go to my contact page and ask.

1.        What is a DeMoulin spanker?

Our most asked question.  Often referred to as a slapstick, this lodge initiation device was perhaps the company’s biggest seller.  Most fraternal lodges that indulged in these antics had one in their arsenal.  The initiate was swatted across the rump with the padded side creating a loud bang when the spanker discharged its blank cartridge.  These were apparently also used by circus clowns.  The color of the padded material varies although blue or green are found most frequently.  The selling price on DeMoulin spankers fluctuates but generally can be purchased in the $50 to $75 range.

2.        I have a sword made by DeMoulin.  What is it worth?

The history behind these swords is murky.  We’ve been told by a DeMoulin descendant that the company did not manufacture them although the company name is etched at the base of the blade.  It’s possible that DeMoulin Bros. did make them in their early years when the factory had its own blacksmith shop.  If this were the case, then any of them sold after 1907 were not made by the factory.  A fire earlier that year wiped out the factory and a blacksmith shop was not part of the rebuilding.  The swords were sold to fraternal lodges and military schools.  Identifying who they were made for is difficult.  Appraising their value is tougher.  We’ve seen prices range from $50 to $150 (or more). 

3.        In what year was my DeMoulin artifact made?

There’s a basic rule of thumb.  If the label says Ed DeMoulin & Co., it was made between 1895 and 1905.  If the label says DeMoulin Bros. & Co., it was made after 1905.  Sometimes we can trace a year on the style of label used.

4.        Are DeMoulin catalogs worth a lot of money?

They can be.  Like any collectible, the value relies on two key factors:  condition and desirability.  DeMoulin catalogs that feature a high number of lodge initiation devices are worth more than those that don’t.  Any variation of the “Burlesque Paraphernalia & Side Degree Specialties” catalog sells well.  The version that has attracted the most attention is Catalog 439, printed in 1930 and believed to be the company’s last one to spotlight initiation devices.  This catalog was reprinted in 2010 by Fantagraphics.  How this affects the original catalog’s value remains to be seen. It is interesting to note that earlier versions of this catalog have not caught on with collectors.  Many of the catalogs boast incredible cover art work like Catalog 440 (band uniforms) and Catalog 320 (Oddfellows). 

 I have a piece of furniture made by DeMoulin.  What was it used for and what is it worth?

Until 1955 when a second fire led to the closing of the woodworking department, DeMoulin Bros. & Co. created some beautiful (and sturdy) furniture for lodges and churches. Those made for lodges may feature logos for that fraternal order.  The DeMoulin Museum has several chairs and pedestals.  The value relies on the type of buyer interested.  Furniture collectors may place a higher premium on some of these pieces.  DeMoulin Collectors has typically paid in the $50 to $200 range for furniture.

   Will you buy my DeMoulin artifact?

Possibly.  Our decision is based on if the piece is something we don’t have at the museum and if both parties can come to an agreement on price.  The process begins with you sending us an e-mail including photos of your artifact!