The miniature New Zealand Wars medal named to W. Norrie, NZA. Named medals such as this are extremely scarce. Victorian period, silver on a swivelling suspender. Really lovely detail - this is a quality item.

 

William Norrie, born at Greenwich, England on 22nd November 1846, served as a young man during the Waikato War of 1863. According to his medal claim he served as a private with No. 1 Company, Auckland Militia at 'various skirmishes'. His medal claim was accepted and the medal issued in 1896.

 

Norrie resided at Shortland St in Auckland, where he worked as a Master Cabinetmaker, being particularly active between 1880 and 1910. His work stood alongside that of Anton Seuffert, specialising in tables, furniture and boxes beautifully made with native New Zealand timbers. Norrie also served with A Battery, Auckland Artillery Volunteers - being elected lieutenant 1879. It is in this capacity as a lieutenant of the volunteers that Norrie has had his miniature medal named.

 

The photo of Norrie is taken from a group shot of the Devonport Naval Artillery Volunteers, published in the Auckland Weekly News 6/4/1900.