111 year old Dominion of Canada silver plate

[prairieguy]

I was given a piece of family history the other day by my 107 year old Great Aunt. When I received it, the plate was black from tarnish and the inscription was almost impossible to make out. I spent yesterday afternoon polishing and here's the result.

The Inscription reads:

"Presented by the Dominion of Canada to Members of Civilian Rifle Associations for Skill in Rifle Shooting

Won by F. Westcott

Douglas Rifle Association 1908"

The plate is 12" across, sterling silver and bears the makers mark of "Birks"

Given our current federal Government's negative attitude towards civilian gun ownership it is hard for me to imagine a time when the Feds supported and encouraged marksmanship.

 

[Cappy]

Pretty amazing piece of history there. Back when a skilled body of individuals available to be called on in a time of need was highly valued.

 

[maple_leaf_eh]

Contact the Dominion of Canada Rifle Association for information on the named individual.

There was a period of time when shooting, the martial sports, competitive marksmanship, and formal enthusiasm for grown men to lie on their bellies and pot away with government issue rifles and ammunition. It was viewed as a social skill to be a good shot, and spreading a necessary skill to young men - who might have to put on uniform and defend the realm one day.

 

[Ashcroft]

I realize that this is a family heirloom but an appropriate modern use for this would be as a commemorative annual trophy for rifle shooting, by your local rod and gun club.

 

[scout]

Trophies sure used to be worth something. You're a lucky man to have that piece of history.