‘These things will not endure or be endured’
MEDAL CONDEMNING PETERLOO MASSACRE ON DISPLAY
A UNIQUE medal condemning those responsible for the Peterloo Massacre has gone on display as the bicentenary of the event approaches.
The New Peterloo Medal, created in the aftermath of the massacre which saw 18 peaceful protestors killed in Manchester in August 1819, is thought to have been produced to raise money for the families of the victims.
There were a number of commemorative medals produced following the landmark event, with a different one already on display in the People’s History Museum.
The one the museum has now acquired is believed to be unique.
The front of the coin depicts a scene with the yeomanry riding into the crowd, with one individual holding up a cap of liberty on a pole.
The inscription on the back reads: “The magistrates and yeomanry of Manchester God confound them,” and round the edge says, “These things will not endure or be endured.”
Between 60,000 and 80,000 people had gathered on what was then known as St Peter’s Field, close to modern day St Peter’s Square, in Manchester city centre seeking the reform of parliamentary representation.
After troops decided to charge the crowd, at least 15 people were hacked or trampled to death.
The event is seen as a landmark in the fight for the universal suffrage and the right to vote.
Medals were among many artefacts created after the massacre to commemorate a major historical event. The newlyacquired one was bought for £3,500, using Heritage Lottery Fund cash, from a dealer who believed it was right to sell with the bicentenary approaching. It was unveiled at a special event at the museum, near Spinningfields and will remain on display until the end of the month. Jenny Mabbott, head of collections at the museum, said: “As we head towards the 200th anniversary of Peterloo and during the centenary year of the first women obtaining the vote, there couldn’t be a more appropriate time to reflect upon the themes of protest and democracy which this historical event brings to the fore. “The New Peterloo Medal is an incredibly exciting and rare addition to our existing Peterloo collection and provides another piece of the jigsaw in the fascinating story of the aftermath of the protest. “It’s definitely a must-see for anyone who wants a taste of what’s to come at the People’s History Museum in 2019.” Jenny Mabbott, head of collections