Object Record
Images
Metadata
Object Name |
Nightstick |
Catalog Number |
1976.108.04 |
Date |
1937 |
Material(s) |
Wood; |
Dimensions |
H-17.5 Dia-1.5 inches |
Description |
This Kentucky National Guard billy club or nightstick is made of a turned piece of wood. The club has a horse head carved into the pommel. There are four grooves in the grip with a double circular guard. |
Notes |
Used and decorated by a trooper from the 123rd Cavalry during strike duty in Eastern Kentucky during the 1930s. Most bituminous coal miners in the nation went on strike, including those working in all Harlan County, Kentucky mines. Kentucky Gov. Keen Johnson sent National Guard troops to Harlan County in mid-May to keep peace between coal companies and striking workers. Eventually more than 400 guardsmen, including the 123rd Cavalry, were there. Sporadic hostile acts took place between striking miners and the National Guard, culminating in a shootout on July 12, 1939. The miners' union signed a contract seven days later. The National Guard left eastern Kentucky in October. |
Collection |
Dr. Fred Ganter Collection |
Subjects |
National guards & reserves Police clubs (Weapons) Strikebreakers Strikes Coal Coal miners Coal mining |
Search Terms |
Eastern Kentucky Coal Coal miners Coal Mining |
Physical Holder |
Kentucky Historical Society - KHS |