Well, I never!
Posted by Caroline on March 27, 1998 at 09:42:12:
In response to More on the Bow Street Runners, written by Carolyn B on March 26, 1998 at 00:12:18
] They wore no uniform, and the only sign of their office was their tipstaff, tipstave, or painted truncheon. PW’s description: The tipstave was short and could be tucked in one’s pocket or coat. It had a brass handle and a crown on the tip (opposite end). Some crowns unscrewed (presumably to reveal a hollow opening) so warrants could be stowed inside. The tipstaff was long and used for ceremonial occasions such as parades. The truncheon had a crown motif with coat of arms painted on it (royal or city). (I suppose all of these could be used as weapons if need be.)
I've got one of them! (at least, it's in the family...I think my Dad has it at the moment---I'll ask him about it..). We've always called it the Baliff's tipstaff! One of my great, great grandfathers was a "Peeler".
- one little key tag!URRRGGGGGGHHHH! Caroline 15:41:22 3/28/98
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- What my source says.. Carolyn B 06:24:46 3/28/98
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