It is impossible to separate the history of national convention souvenirs from the story of its conventions. Since the reason for convention is to conduct the business of the organization, the seminars, workshops, luncheons, salesroom, banquets and souvenirs are simply amenities to entertain convention guests before and after their attendance at the annual business meeting. It is interesting to note how convention grew from a small gathering to the larger meeting it is today. The first UFDC convention was held in 1950, in New London, Connecticut. The souvenir was this commemorative plate inscribed with the occasion, place and date. Laurie McGill Collection Early convention souvenirs are displayed at the UFDC Museum. 44 Spring 2019