5th Class: History Artefacts

World War One Artefacts
On Wednesday Peter Monaghan brought in his Great Grandfather's bayonet that he swapped with a German soldier at the end of World War 1 in 1918.
Peter told us that his Great Grandfather, Private Patrick Ryan had fought in World War 1 and at one point was involved in a serious explosion in which his friend was killed. Private Ryan survived the war and was given medals for his service and a medal for meritorious service.
Bayonets were designed to be attached to the barrel of a rifle to be used in close combat.

The bayonet has a metal scabbard and leather holder or Frog.

The symbol of an eagle's head is visible on the handle.

The British War Medal, 1914-18

Established on 26^th July 1919.
Also known as 'Squeak'.

The silver or bronze medal was awarded to officers and men of the British and Imperial Forces who either entered a theatre of war or entered service overseas between 5th August 1914 and 11th November 1918 inclusive. This was later extended to services in Russia, Siberia and some other areas in 1919 and 1920.

Approximately 6.5 million British War Medals were issued. Approximately 6.4 million of these were the silver versions of this medal. Around 110,000 of a bronze version were issued mainly to Chinese, Maltese and Indian Labour Corps. The front (obv or obverse) of the medal depicts the head of George V.

The recipient's service number, rank, name and unit was impressed on the rim.

The Allied Victory Medal
Also known as 'Wilfred'

It was decided that each of the allies should each issue their own bronze victory medal with a similar design, similar equivalent wording and identical ribbon.

The British medal was designed by W. McMillan. The front depicts a winged classical figure representing victory.

Information about the medals was taken from the following website:
http://www.greatwar.co.uk/medals/ww1-campaign-medals.htm
Further details and information about these and other World War One medals and artefacts can be found there.

Jacqueline brought in a baseball bat from the 1960s or 1970s, tennis racket from the same time, coins (one from 1914) and a vinyl record again from the 1960s or 1970s.
Fiona brought in an old casette player with a tape and earphones. Finally Peter Murphy brought in one picture of one of a few diaries almost all were over a hundred years old. Peter all so brought in a picture of a brass horse and cart which is around 30, 40 or 50 years old.

Written By: Peter Murphy