BBC - A History of the World - Object : 'For Arctic Discoveries' Medal

Contributed by Blue Town Heritage Centre

'For Arctic Discoveries' Medal

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This medal belonged to my great grandfather, James Miles, and was awarded in the second franklin relief expedition in 1849.

Awarded to all officers and men engaged in expeditions to the Polar Regions from 1818 to 1855, including those involved in the on-going search for the ill-fated Franklin Expedition of 1845-48. This medals was granted to civilians, scientists, personel of the French and U.S. Navies and employees of The Hudson's Bay Company who took part in a number of abotive search parties for Sir John Franklin and his crew. Some 1,106 medals out of 1,486 in all were awarded to Officers and ratings of The Royal Navy.

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1. At 04:48 on 22 November 2011, Robert J Bilow wrote:
My Great Great Grandfather Robert MacFarlane was awarded this medal, too. Our family (McKinnon) history reports that this medal was awarded to Robert for his participation in the search for Sir John Franklin.

Our family tradition has established that this medal is to be passed on to the oldest grandson on his 40th birthday. It is now in my possession.

I had previously seen an auction for a medal like this about 10 years ago. The auction house had stated that these were routinely given out to Hudson Bay traders. That lead me to question the truth about the history of this medal.

In my lifetime, I would like to know the entire story behind this medal. I would appreciate any information or leads. [Personal details removed by Moderator]
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