Badge
1904
Place madeUnited States, North America
Silver
Overall: 3 x 1 1/4 in. ( 7.6 x 3.2 cm )
Gift of Mr. George Edington
1968.17
The General Slocum, a paddle-wheel excursion steamer, burned on June 15, 1904 in the East River near North Brother Island. It was the worst maritime disaster in New York City history with 1021 deaths. Life jackets and hoses had decayed and the intense heat kept rescuers many rescuers away. However, 45 silver medals were issued to those who risked their lives to save others. One of these people was Edmund Edington. The Captain was convicted of negligence.
DescriptionThree tier pin-back badge. Medal connected by chains; top tier has engraved eagle; below is engraved "PRESENTED TO" and "EDMUND E. EDINGTON"; below in low relief are men being pulled from sea; engraved below "FOR SAVING FROM DROWNING"; middle tier in high relief shows rowboat with three sitting and one prone figure; obverse of bottom tier is circular medal New York State Arms at center and "V.L.S.C." engraved around perimeter; on top of medal in smaller letters "V L S C"; medal sits on anchor; reverse of bottom tier has "SLOCUM HERO", " No Brother Isl" and "June 15. 1904".
ClassificationsLAPEL DEVICES (PIN-BACK BUTTONS & BADGES)
