Previous Lot Next Lot

Auction: 23111 - Orders, Decorations and Medals - e-Auction
Lot: 969

Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, Life Saving medal, bronze issue, Type II, (Mr. F. Archer. - 1939.), engraved naming, it its box of issue extremely fine

Sold together with a newspaper article which gives more detail:

'The prompt action of a Queenborough man in saving a horse from drowning recently, has aroused considerable admiration in the district and has attracted the attention of the R.S.P.C.A. authorities. He is Mr Frederick Archer, of 139 High Street, who is employed at Lodder's Iron Foundry, Queenborough.

It appears that the horse, attached to a tip-cart laden with rubbish, was backing prior to discharging the load near what is known as the old fish pond in Rushenden Road. Without the slightest warning, the ground at the edge of the pond gave way and the horse and cart fell into the water. The weight of the cart pulled the horse down and the animal was in danger of the drowning, when Mr. Archer observed its plight.

There was a full tide at the time, and Mr. Archer waded in and succeeded in liberating the horse from its harness. The horse was obviously frightened, and got further out of its depth. By coaxing and pulling, Mr. Archer, however, succeeded in bringing the horse to the edge of the pond and out of the water. Onlookers described it as a splendid action, but Mr. Archer, who was very loth to talk about it, said he would do the same for any animal. He is an expert on horses, having worked with them for the greater part of his life. He was a horse driver during the War.'

Subject to 20% VAT on Buyer’s Premium. For more information please view Terms and Conditions for Buyers.

Sold for
£210

Starting price
£70