Huddart Parker and Co cap badge
Date1876-1912
Object number00056365
NameBadge
MediumMetal, fabric
DimensionsOverall: 47 × 28 × 12 mm
ClassificationsClothing and personal items
Credit LineAustralian National Maritime Museum Collection Gift from Glenn Alfred Thorpe
DescriptionHuddart Parker & Co. cap badge. Bullion and silk thread embroidered house flag of the Huddart Parker Line surrounded by oak leaves, owned by Alfred Thorpe. Thorpe commanded several vessels with Huddart Parker, including WESTRALIA, before being appointed Assistant Pilot in Lyttleton, NZ in 1900.
Part of a collection of objects assembled by Alfred Thorpe (c. 1852 – 1931) relating to his merchant and naval service career and association with Antarctic exploration while serving as pilot and harbour master at Lyttelton Harbour, New Zealand. The collection is illustrative of the important role Lyttelton paid in Antarctic exploration in the early 20th century, as both the final major port vessels of exploration and their relief ships visited on their journey south, and also the first they put in at on their return.
SignificanceThis collection of objects highlights the importance of the port of Lyttleton in early 20th century Antarctic exploration and the role of pilots and harbour masters in supporting the crews and vessels sailing south. The collection not only illustrates the professional relationship between port staff and ships’ crews, but also the high degree of mutual respect the association engendered. The close working association between mariners and key maritime roles, such as pilot and harbour master, is apparent in this collection.
