from Parish of Weem, Perthshire
This lead beggar's badge is from the parish of Weem in Perthshire. It dates from the mid 18th century.
The letters 'WM' for Weem appear in a monogram on the front of the badge.
In medieval and early modern times, beggars were generally valued and respected for the news they carried and for their craftsmanship or their medical or musical skills. This only changed with industrialisation, when the numbers begging rapidly increased.
To search on related items, click any underlined text below.