Royal Humane Society Medal, Bronze (Successful) named to John S. Humphrey 17 July 1874

The medal is generally in good condition. Mounted on buckle brooch. 

Humphrey was awarded the medal for a successful act in rescuing a boy from drowning. 

An article reads:
 "The evening of July 17th 1874 was extremely warm and a number of boys of the 'Training Ship Formidable' decided to take to the waters to cool down before turning in at 9.30pm. The ship at the time was anchored in about ten foot of water. One of the boys James Trick from Devon got into serious difficulties and was in immediate danger of drowning; John Swift Humphrey, a 21 year old teacher on board, swam to the rescue and brought the boy back to the ship in an unconscious state. He was revived on board helped by a large tot of brand. The rescue was witnessed by members of staff C. Rice and Robert Jasman. For his bravery that evening John was awarded the RHS Bronze, case number 19415. 
  John Humphrey had joined the teaching staff two years before the incident, teachers usually served for 2 or 3 years. He met his bride Elizabeth during his time at Portishead, but soon after the rescue he moved with his family to another teaching job in London."