Next of kin memorial plaque - Robert Blythyn

Next of Kin Memorial Plaque issued to the family of Robert Blythyn, a Smokeroom Steward on board Lusitania who perished in the sinking. They were issued to commemorate the brave soles that made the ulitmate sacrifice during the First World War, something that their families could hold on to. They became known as the Dead Man's Penny or Widow's Penny. A fellow Lusitania crew member, 16 year old Sculleryman George Knill, survived the sinking and went on to meet and marry Robert's daughter Mary. Robert and George were uknown to each other at the time of the sinking. The family subsequently donated the collection containing items belonging to both men.