County: Northumberland
Issued on: Departure
Date of presentation: 19/02/1900
Number issued: 1
Gold Maltese cross, suitably inscribed, to:
Presentations to Wallsend Reservists.
On Monday night there was a large gathering at the Station Hotel, consisting of drillers from Messrs Swan and Hunter’s and others for the purpose of making a farewell presentation to Bombardier John MARSHALL, who is going out with the Elswick Battery. The proceedings took the form of the inevitable smoking concert, Councillor Snaith presiding and Councillor O’Hanlon occupying the vice-chair.
The Chairman opened the proceedings with a few appropriate remarks and the toast of “The Queen”. “Messrs Swan and Hunter” was proposed in eloquent language by Mr Mowatt, who spoke from 35 year’s knowledge of the progress of the firm and the energy and ability that characterised the present managing director. Mr McDonald, foreman driller, responded. “The Army, Navy, and Elswick Battery” was proposed by Councillor O’Hanlon.
The presentation was made by Mr McDonald, who in handing over the gifts – a gold Maltese cross, a silver-mounted pipe and tobacco, and a purse of gold for Mrs Marshall – remarked that he should never have picked Mr MARSHALL out as one eager to go to the front. He was one of the quietest and most industrious men he ever had under him, which just exemplified how difficult it was to put your hand on the right man. Bomb. MARSHALL was a most exemplary man, a man who would do his work and knew how to do it, and one whom he never had trouble with. (Applause).
