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State Senator S. Frank Shore from Montgomery County (District 17 Democrat) fought for twelve years to enact a mandatory seat belt law in Maryland; it became effective July 1, 1986. To advertise his position during the legislative fight, he wore this belt – an actual automobile seat belt in a sleeve that was needlepointed by State Delegate Kay G. Bienen of Prince George’s County. The sleeve shows the distinctive elements of the Maryland state flag based on the coat of arms of George Calvert, 1st Lord Baltimore. It has the black and gold diagonal pattern of the Calvert family and the red and white cross pattern of the Crossland family (his mother). The state seal abuts a “starburst” steel buckle. Unlike the more common campaign posters and buttons, this belt, donated by Senator Shore in 2005, is a most unusual political artifact.
Shore (born 1935) served in the Maryland General Assembly for 20 years (House of Delegates from 1971 to 1978, State Senate from 1978 to 1990). Kay G. Bienen (1938-2005) served in the House of Delegates from 1975 to 1982.
Please note that Col. Donald E. Brooks is the correct name in the photo caption.
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