History

The Long Service Cross was instituted on September 16, 1886 by Duke Ernst I. It was awarded to male and female servants who have served faithfully for 30 years in the same family.

The original name for the Cross is "Ehren-Auszeichnung für 30 Jahre".

The "1886-1895" version was awarded until 1895 and exclusively to servants. The later version was given to servants and workers.

Additionally, a Cross for 50 Years was introduced with a gilt centre shield.