Lot 2037

Description

Masonic Lodge, jewel converted to a brooch, in gold (15ct, total weight 27.1g, 48x42mm) with blue enamel in cameo, by G.K., Masonic detail replaced by engraved floral gold button in centre, pin-back suspension, reverse inscribed 'Presented/By the Bretheren of the/Phoenix Lodge No.904/Province of/West Yorkshire/To/Bro.Wilfred Badger/W.M./on the occasion of/his leaving England/July 1880'. Extremely fine, in Kenning, London fitted case.

Wilfred Badger (18 February 1852 - 8 October 1915) was a well-known solicitor. He was born in 1852, in Rotherham, Yorkshire, and was the third son of the late H.P.Badger. He came of a generation of solicitors, his father and two of his brothers, his grandfather and three of his brothers, as well as himself and two brothers, all being solicitors. He was educated at St.Peter's, York and was articled to his uncle, passing as a solicitor in 1872, when only twenty years of age. He was admitted a few months later.

At the time of his death he was among the four members of the profession in Canterbury longest on the roll. In 1880 he arrived in New Zealand on the ship 'Glenhora', settling in Christchurch. Immediately after his arrival he joined Mr J.B.Gresson as managing clerk, and later commenced practice on his own account. Shortly afterwards he published Badger's New Zealand Statutes, later editions being continued up to 1882. He also first published the Land Transfer Law of New Zealand, Licensing Laws of Australasia and the Local Government Guide.

He was survived by his wife, three daughters and six sons, the seventh son having died at Trentham Camp in July 1915.