Iron G.A.R medal and horseshow plaque-1888

 I do not know what the intended purpose of this item was meant to be. It currently hangs on the wall, but I am not sure if it was meant to be a decor piece or part of something else. I assume it is made of iron and features an eagle sitting on a horseshoe with a medal in the middle. The bottom reads G.A.R. and above the medal it reads 1888. I have researched the medal and found it listed as both a GAR membership medal and a GAR Ladies Auxilary medal. I don't know much about the origin of the piece because it has been in my husband's family so long that no one knows really where it began. Any information on its intended purpose or origin would be wonderful as we research family history. Thanks in advance!