My boyfriend was very close to his grandfather who recently passed away, and he mentioned that his grandfather used to have an engineer's (or conductor's?) ring. I would like to find out exactly what it is (more specifically than just a ring) and perhaps find one for sale. If anyone could shed some light on this I would greatly appreciate it.
Thank you in advance,
Kris
Posted by Oakfield Railroad Museum (Member # 137) on :
Kris: I railroaded for 42 1/2 years and don't recall hearing of or seeing an engineers ring. However I have seen rings with the Brotherhood (union) insignia on them. I have no idea where you might find one.
Boot
Posted by David Lilley (Member # 166) on :
In Canada, professional engineers (mechanical, civil, computer, etc) wear an engineering ring. It is presented in a ceremony wear they pledge to maintain integrity, and quality in their work. The ring is a symbolic reminder of their pledge and is worn on the pinky finger of their working hand (i.e. right handed or left handed). When an individual passes away the ring is supposed to be returned to the professional engineering society to be passed on to a new graduate.
I don't know if this is the ring in question. It is not associated with locomotive engineers but professional engineers in Canada working for the railway will have one (altough not everyone wears them). I hope this helped.
[This message has been edited by David Lilley (edited 09-12-2000).]