Orders, Decorations and Medals

Board of Trade Medal for Gallantry in Saving Life at Sea, V.R., large, bronze (James Whelan, Wreck of the Ship “Irwell” of London on the 13th February, 1880) edge bruising, about very fine £200-250

The Irwell, of London was wrecked in the North Atlantic on 13 February 1880. The City of Brussels, of Liverpool came to the rescue - picking up the crew from their own boat; the Captain’s wife and a stewardess were rescued by a boat from the City of Brussels at great risk. The rescue was effected in a heavy and dangerous sea.

The Captain of the City of Brussels was awarded the Board of Trade Silver Medal for Humanity; eight men of the crew, including Able Seaman Whelan were awarded the Bronze Medal for Gallantry.