Special collections

Our collection boasts unique heritage pieces and exceptional sources. Discover some hidden treasures and the fascinating stories behind them – all available digitally in our catalog.

Amsab-ISG has built up considerable expertise in digitizing newspapers and archives over the past few years. This section also provides insights into a selection of these sources, which are full-text searchable wherever possible.

Flags of the first Belgian trade unions

Amsab-ISG owns over 800 flags. They reflect the rich diversity of associations from the late 19th century to around the 1960s. The various unions also distinguished themselves with their often beautiful flags, made of fine silk and bright colors, featuring images and symbols referring to the profession or region they represent. Amsab-ISG preserves, among other things, the flags of the very first Belgian unions, namely the Fraternal Society of Weavers and the Society of Distressed Spinners of Ghent. 

Flag of the Central Lithographers, Antwerp branch

 

© Amsab-ISG