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The Navy League medal
The Navy League medal

The Navy League medal

Date1860-1932
Object number00056359
NameMedal
MediumMetal, cotton, fabric, enamel
DimensionsOverall: 53 × 25 × 3 mm
ClassificationsCoins and medals
Credit LineAustralian National Maritime Museum Collection Gift from Glenn Alfred Thorpe
Collections
DescriptionAn enamelled Navy League medallion. Owned by Alfred Thorpe, pilot and harbour master of Lyttelton, NZ.

Thorpe belonged to the Canterbury Branch of the Navy League, founded 1896. Affiliated with the Navy League of Great Britain, the Navy League had the stated aim of urging both governments and the populations of countries within the British Empire of the importance of a strong navy as the best guarantee of peace.


SignificanceThis collection of objects assembled by harbour pilot Alfred Thorpe highlights the importance of the port of Lyttleton in early 20th century Antarctic exploration and the role of pilots and harbour masters in supporting the crews and vessels sailing south. The collection not only illustrates the professional relationship between port staff and ships’ crews, but also the high degree of mutual respect the association engendered. The close working association between mariners and key maritime roles, such as pilot and harbour master, is apparent in this collection.