Recess Antiques

Description

G&SWR
Glasgow & South Western Railway
World War 1
Railway Service Badge
Maker: J. A. Wylie & Co.
Number 3768

Before conscription was introduced in 1916, the army relied on voluntary recruitment. It was assumed by many that a man not in uniform was avoiding joining up and was therefore often accused of shirking their duty to their country. The famous white feather campaign saw men not in uniform presented with a white feather as a symbol of cowardice.

The official badges were intended to prove that the wearer was doing their duty to their country in a time of war in a different way. They were not in uniform, but they may have been working in munitions factories, railways or in the dockyards carrying out work that was vital to the war effort.

After conscription, the need for these badges faded, along with the white feather campaign. However, many continued to be worn throughout the war, especially by female shift workers for whom the badge could give priority boarding and fare concessions on public transport, as well as indicating that there was nothing disreputable about these ladies travelling alone at night.

Approximate dimensions: diameter 27mm, weight 8.3 grams.
Notice that the piece that attaches to the lapel is bent.
The enamel is a little smudged in places and has small points of loss in the enamel, especially the blue. Some of this may have been in the manufacturing process as well as being caused through normal use and age. Please see photos.
Overall in good condition considering its age and use.
Free P&P in UK
All our items include postage and packaging in the UK.

Buyers outside the UK need to email us for postage costs before buying. Overseas buyers need to check that the item they intend buying can be imported into their country and will be responsible for paying any customs and/or tax charges.

Only form of payment available is through clicking on the Buy Securely icon. We are not able to process debit/credit card payments over the phone.

If you wish to return any item then you need to advise us via email within 14 days after the day the goods are received and you will need to pay the return postage. On safe receipt of the goods the refund will be made.