Previous Lot Next Lot

Auction: 347 - The Numismatic Collector's Series Sale
Lot: 58

United States. Department of the Treasury. Gold Life Saving Medal. Julian LS-9. 44.9mm. By Anthony C. Paquet. Awarded to: JAMES M. WHEELWRIGHT FOR HEROICALLY RESCUING TWO PERSONS JUNE - 18. 1910.

On June 18, 1910, the electric train upon which Lieutenant James M. Wheelwright of the New York City Metropolitan Police, was riding "stopped during a severe summer storm while passing a trestle spanning an arm of Jamaica Bay." Down below, a boat had capsized, and its occupant, a woman, was drowning. Wheelwright attempted to leave the train to save her but the train crew restrained him, warning "that the trolley had grounded and that the trestle was charged with electricity and afire. Brushing all restraint aside," he jumped from the train into the bay and rescued the woman. The two were hauled up and out of the water by a bell cord let down from above.

As the train was about to proceed, a "cry was let out that a man was drowning in the bay. Taking time only to remove his shoes and blouse, Wheelwright once again plunged into the water." Half-crazed, the drowning man grabbed his rescuer by the arms, engaging him in a desperate struggle, dragging them both under the water again and again. At length, Wheelwright was able to subdue him and complete the rescue.

Approximately 98 gms with hanger. Some light hairlines in field. About Uncirculated. Included also is a photo of Wheelwright, in uniform, wearing the medal, a copy of a letter sent by his wife to her grandson in regard to the medal; and a scrapbook containing letters from passengers on the train attesting to Wheelwright's heroism, other letters related to the medal and the events which precipitated it, and clippings regarding Wheelwright and his career.

Sold for
$4,750