British India, Army Temperance Medal 1889, known as the "First Crookshank Badge", silvered bronze, with blue ribbon

Obv: cross pattée with A T A (Army Temperance Association) 1889 on limbs, 6 within C in centre

Rev: plain

With suspender and blue ribbon

Condition: about extremely fine; Diameter: 39mm

References: BHIM 950.20

Notes: The 'temperance' movement began in the United States of America in the early 1800s, and was established in England in the 1820s and 30s. The purpose was to encourage sobriety among the working-class and to renounce the demon drink. The campaign to promote sobriety among British soldiery in India really began in 1862 when Lt Col Montgomery founded the Soldiers' Total Abstinence Society, and in 1880 Lord Roberts founded the Army Temperance Association, India. Robert Puddester gives a good account of the circumstances surrounding this medal in BHIM pp164-168. This medal was awarded for six months off the booze.

Price £25