Identity area
Reference code
Title
Date(s)
- Twentieth Century (Creation)
Level of description
Extent and medium
metal, fabric. 9 x 3.5 x .5
Context area
Name of creator
Biographical history
Archival history
05/01/2025
Content and structure area
Scope and content
Medal awarded to William Deans as part of the Deeds of Bravery Act 1947 in recognition for him saving three sailors.
William 'The Hero' Deans
This is the first ever medal awarded under the Deeds of Bravery Act, 1947. It was presented to docker William Deans, who rescued three sailors overcome by fumes in the hold of a coal ship berthed at Sir John Rogerson's Quay. The medal was stolen from William's home in 1958. After it passed through two Dublin pawn shops and a London auctioneer, William's son, Christopher, recovered the medal... 58 years later! To be a real hero, all you have to do is act.
Appraisal, destruction and scheduling
Accruals
System of arrangement
Conditions governing access
Conditions governing reproduction
Language of material
Script of material
Language and script notes
Physical characteristics and technical requirements
Bronze medal with navy fabric with two grey lines.
'Arna bronnad ag Comairle na Mire Gaile ar Liam Deans 2ú Meiteam 1948' is read on the reverse, there is also a branch with leaves represented on this side.
