Swansea Jack facts for kids
Swansea Jack memorial
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| Species | Dog |
|---|---|
| Breed | Retriever, locally called a "Newfoundland dog" (see text) |
| Sex | Male |
| Born | Jack 1930 Possibly Newfoundland, Canada (see text) |
| Died | October 1937(Aged 7) Swansea, Wales, United Kingdom |
| Resting place | St. Helen's Rugby Grounds 51° 38' 0" North, 3° 58' 0" West |
| Nation from | Wales |
| Occupation | Lifeguard |
| Employer | North Dock |
| Years active | 1931-1937 |
| Known for | Rescuing 27 people |
| Title | Named "Dog of the Century" by National Canine Defence League; more (see text) |
| Owner | William Thomas |
| Appearance | Black retriever-type, longish hair, similar to a Flat-Coated Retriever |
| Awards | Lord Mayor of London: Silver Cup; National Canine Defence League: bronze medal (twice); Publicly funded burial monument: Marble and Bronze; more (see text). |
Swansea Jack (1930 – October 1937) was a very famous dog from Wales. He was known for being a hero. Jack bravely rescued many people from the docks and riverbanks in Swansea. People believe he saved at least 27 lives during his lifetime.
The Life of Swansea Jack
Swansea Jack was a black dog with long, shiny fur. He looked a lot like a modern Flat-coated Retriever. However, at the time, people often called him a Newfoundland dog. This was even though he was smaller than typical Newfoundland dogs. Some thought he might have been born in Newfoundland, Canada.
Jack lived in the North Dock area of Swansea. He stayed with his owner, William Thomas, near the River Tawe. Jack had a special gift: he always seemed to know when someone was in trouble in the water. He would quickly dive in to help. Then, he would pull the person safely back to the dock.
Jack's First Rescues
Jack's first known rescue happened in June 1931. He saved a 12-year-old boy, but this amazing act was not reported. Just a few weeks later, Jack rescued another swimmer. This time, a crowd of people watched him. His brave act made the local newspaper. The local council even gave him a special silver collar.
Awards and Recognition
Swansea Jack became very famous for his courage. In 1936, a newspaper in London called Star gave him a big award. He was named the 'Bravest Dog of the Year'.
He also received a silver cup from the Lord Mayor of London. Jack is still the only dog ever to get two bronze medals from the National Canine Defence League. This organization is now known as Dogs Trust. People say he saved 27 lives from the Docks and River Tawe.
Jack's Legacy
Sadly, Swansea Jack passed away in October 1937. He was only seven years old. His death was reported by newspapers all over the United Kingdom. Many articles said he had saved 29 lives.
A special monument was built for him in Swansea. People paid for it with donations. This monument is on the Promenade, near St Helen's Rugby Ground. In the year 2000, Swansea Jack was honored again. He was named 'Dog of the Century' by a group called NewFound Friends of Bristol. This group trains dogs to help rescue people from water. Swansea Jack is remembered as a true hero.
