Swansea Jack was a black retriever born in 1930. He lived in the North Dock / River Tawe area of Swansea, with his master William Thomas. Jack would always respond to cries for help from the water. His first rescue, in June 1931, of a 12 year old schoolboy, went unreported. But a few weeks later, in front of a crowd, Jack rescued a swimmer from the docks. His photograph appeared in the local paper and the local council awarded him this silver collar. Numerous awards followed, he is still the only dog to have been awarded TWO bronze medals (‘the canine VC’) by the National Canine Defence League. Legend has it that Jack saved 27 people in his lifetime. Sadly, in 1937, he died after eating rat poison. His memorial, paid for by the townspeople of Swansea, stands on the Promenade, near St. Helen’s Rugby Ground. In 2000, Swansea Jack was named ‘Dog of the Century’ by NewFound Friends of Bristol who train domestic dogs in aquatic rescue techniques.
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Location : Swansea,Wales
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Creator / Holder : Swansea Museum
Museum No. : SWASM:SM
Composition : Silver
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This Item is located at Swansea Museum Collections Centre at Landore in the Stores.
