Blue Heron Lodge issues new diamond patch

Many OA collectors know that the first fully embroidered pocket flap patch was issued by Blue Heron Lodge 349 of Norfolk, VA in 1957. Lesser known is that the design of that flap patch evolved from the diamond-shaped patch issued on the Blue Heron Lodge neckerchief in 1954.

Revisions of the diamond-shaped patch have occurred many times in the decades since its initial release. Colors of design elements have varied as manufacturers have changed, but the timeless design has remained constant.

At the Blue Heron Spring Ordeal, held at Pipsico Scout Reservation from May 16-18, a brand new diamond-shaped patch was revealed, with a limited number of loose (unsewn) diamonds available for sale to Lodge members. A total of 98 will be available at Blue Heron events, with 2 donated to the Lodge museum. The remainder of the diamonds will be issued on Lodge neckerchiefs, which are restricted to two per member per lifetime.

This is the first Blue Heron Lodge diamond from this manufacturer (Shelby Patch Company of Shelby Township, MI) and is distinctly different from prior versions. The log in the water returns to the brown color of early versions, along with numerous other color changes. The most noticeable feature is the tan line separating the marsh from the water, which appears on no other 349 diamond. The patch is 125mm (4 7/8″) wide, 163mm (6 3/8″) high. Click on the image above to view a full-sized picture of the beautiful new 349 diamond-shaped patch.

Sources:
Blue Heron Lodge History, Dan Wood