Silver Bosun Call or Fireman Whistle, 1860

This is a rare Victorian silver boatswain's whistle or bosun's call with an original engraved inscription suggesting it was given as a fireman's whistle.

Silver bosun calls were generally given to high-ranking naval officers and the buoy of this whistle is accordingly stamped with the crowned anchor mark of the Royal Navy. However, the keel of this whistle is engraved: "Presented by the Fire Brigade of Kingston-upon-Thames, to their superintendent Mr J B Smith as a mark of their gratitude and esteem 21st February 1861".

Generally speaking, boatswain whistles were used to pass messages around navy ships and because of their high pitch were particularly effective during storms or battles. They were also used to pipe flag ranking officers or important guests aboard ship.

Made by George Unite, this longer-than-typical whistle is hallmarked to the reverse side of the keel and has a retainer loop for hanging from a chain. It remains in excellent condition and blows well.