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[glucke]

Hi all and thanks for letting me join the forum.

I recently came into possession of a badge belonging to my Grandfather John O'Neill. John served in WW1 with the Leinster Regiment and the Labour Corps.
John lived in the Rhondda Valley in South Wales.

The medal reads "Old Contemptibles Of Wales Association" Aug - Nov 1914
On the reverse it reads Reg No: 824652 and 193

I have done some investigating and see that there are a number of branches of this association. Ideally if possible I would like to know which branch he was involved with and then contact them to see if they have any photos of past members.
Any assistance/pointers would be appreciated.
Thanks in advance.

[Bill A]

Hello glucke, welcome to the Forum. Your account is active and open for posts.

[wardog]

Brief existence if this thread is correct. https://www.britishbadgeforum.com/fo...ad.php?t=68200
Regards, Paul.

[mike_vee]

From the earlier thread :

The Old Contemptibles of Wales existed from 1933 until 1940

This would tie in with the registered design number of the badge you show which dates it to 1937/38 .

The badge of "The Old Contemptibles' Association" has an earlier design number , 726347 , indicating a date of 1927.

A couple of threads about "The Old Contemptibles of Wales" have group photos which may be of interest.

Photograph Of Old Contemptibles Wales Cardiff Members

Old Contemptibles


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[mike_vee]

Originally Posted by glucke

I have done some investigating and see that there are a number of branches of this association. Ideally if possible I would like to know which branch he was involved with and then contact them to see if they have any photos of past members.

There were a large number of branches of "The Old Contemptibles' Association" , including a Cardiff branch , but it would appear that "The Old Contemptibles of Wales" was a completely seperate organisition.

The Old Contemptibles of Wales displaying their Branch Standard outside their headquarters, the Old Contemptibles of Wales Club and Institute at 22-24 Churchill Way. The Standard is of a different design to the official Old Contemptibles’ Association version, and consists of a dark blue sheet with gold embroidery and a Union Flag in the upper left canton. The finial is of the “spear” type.

Post WW1 numerous "veterans associations" were formed , some joined forces to become larger groups (like the British Legion) but occasionally some members would be unhappy with the organisation/policies and set up thier own 'splinter group'.

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[glucke]

Just want to say thanks for the replies received.

With your help I will investigate further and hopefully find a picture of my Grandfather.

Regards
glucke