Towards the close of the year 1835 the following statement appeared in the Hull newspapers:—
'We understand some gentlemen are interesting themselves in favour of Ellerthorpe by representing his repeated exertions in the cause of humanity, and sending the particular cases to the Royal Humane Society. We shall be ready to receive any subscriptions for the purpose of rewarding one so highly deserving recompense from his fellow men. Ellerthorpe is married and has two children.'—Nov. 23, 1835.
The appeal to the Royal Humane Society was sent, and Mr. Ellerthorpe received the following response:—
Society's House,
January 21st, 1836.
The Secretary of the Royal Humane Society is directed to inform John Ellerthorpe that at an adjourned general court of the Institution, held on the 18th inst., the Honorary Medallion of the Society was unanimously conferred on him for his courage and humanity in saving the lives of nine persons at different times.
John Ellerthorpe,
Barrow, near Barton-on-Humber, Lincoln.
THE MEDALLION OF THE ROYAL HUMANE SOCIETY.
The Medallion bears this inscription:—
