Agricultural trophy presented to Thomas Kirwan in 1808
Date made: 1808
Maker: Isle of Man Branch Workington Agricultural Society
Description: An agricultural trophy (obverse and reverse shown) presented to Thomas Kirwan by the Isle of Man branch of the Workington Agricultural Society in 1808. The inscription states that it was presented 'for the best stock of cattle.' Kirwan was a member of the House of Keys, from the 1790s. An affluent member of Castletown society, he was a contemporary of George Quayle.
The trophy is in the form of a silver cup, with London hallmarks. An additional inscription states 'The Property and Security of Great Britain'.
The final decade of the 18th century and the beginning of the 19th century were years of great advances in agriculture. One of the greatest exponents of these developments was King George III. Such was his interest in these matters that he earned the derisive nickname 'Farmer George.' At this time new scientific approaches, in particular selective breeding, were producing larger and larger animals. Agricultural societies encouraged these improvements by holding annual shows, and presenting prizes for the best livestock.
Measurements: 11 x 8 x 8 cm
Materials: metal: silver plate
Object name: trophy
Collection: Social History Collection
ID Number: 1969-0070