In the early 19th century, amidst the looming threat of Napoleon's invasion, local militia units played a crucial role in Britain's defence. One such unit was the Diss Volunteer Infantry, a group of dedicated men from the small market town of Diss in Norfolk. Among these volunteers was Jabez Waller, a man whose commitment and proficiency in military exercises earned him the prestigious Reward of Merit medal in 1811.

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The Historical Context

The Diss Volunteer Infantry was formed during a period of intense national anxiety. Napoleon Bonaparte's ambitions to invade Britain had led to the establishment of numerous volunteer forces across the country. These units, often composed of local men, were tasked with defending their communities and supporting the regular army. The Diss Volunteer Infantry, sometimes likened to the "Dad's Army" of their day, was one such unit, embodying the spirit of local resilience and patriotism [1]. The group was known to have drilled on Diss Common.

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The Medal's Significance

The Reward of Merit medal awarded to Jabez Waller is a testament to his dedication and skill. This silver medal, hallmarked in London in 1811, is an oval-shaped piece with a triple-stepped rim. The obverse features the inscription "G.R." (Georgius Rex) surrounded by "Diss Volunteer Infantry," along with a trophy of arms including cannon balls, swords, standards, and a drum. The exergue reads "Reward of Merit 1811," while the reverse is inscribed with "Awarded to Mr. Jabez Waller for Proficiency at the Military Exercises" [2].

This medal is not just a piece of metal; it represents the recognition of Jabez Waller's exceptional service and proficiency. It highlights the importance of local volunteer forces in the broader context of national defence during a time of great uncertainty.

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Jabez Waller: A Local Hero

Little is known about the personal life of Jabez Waller, but his receipt of the Reward of Merit medal suggests he was a figure of considerable importance within the Diss Volunteer Infantry. His proficiency in military exercises would have made him a key member of the unit, contributing to its readiness and effectiveness. The medal serves as a tangible link to the past, offering a glimpse into the lives of those who stood ready to defend their homeland.

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The Medal's Journey

The medal awarded to Jabez Waller has a storied history. It was part of the J.B. Hayward collection in 1971 and has since been auctioned multiple times. Most recently, it was auctioned in January 2013, by James and Sons Auctioneers in Fakenham [3]. The Diss Museum recognised the medal's historical significance and set about fund raising. The museum was successful in its bid and was able to add the medal to its collection of military artifacts.

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Preserving Local History

For Diss Museum, the acquisition of Jabez Waller's Reward of Merit medal was a significant addition to its collection. The addition of this 19th-century medal provided a deeper historical context allowing visitors to appreciate the long-standing tradition of local defence and the contributions of ordinary citizens like Jabez Waller.

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The Reward of Merit medal awarded to Jabez Waller is more than just an artifact; it is a symbol of local heroism and dedication. It serves as a reminder of the vital role played by volunteer forces in Britain's history and the enduring spirit of communities like Diss.

 

Diss Museum's efforts to acquire this medal underscore the importance of preserving and honouring our local heritage for future generations.