Name/TitleFenland single line

About this objectA Fenland [Cambridgeshire] single or whip line. This was made in 4 parts. a) a steel curb chain, bow and swivel on one end with a snap hook on the other end.
b) a leather check rein. One end is stitched to the bow and swivel of the curb chain.
c) 3 strand twist hemp line, spliced to the other end of the check rein.
d) Handfast or handpat, twisted and tapered hemp rope, turned, spliced and whipped to form a handle.
This item was used by Fenland horsemen to drive any number of horses, it was the sole control.
This item was made by R. Powell of 100% original parts. It is made principally by splicing the ropes.

These lines were used on most Fen farms up to the late 1950's where horses were used. This line was used on the Cambridgeshire Black Fens and some of South Lincolnshire silt fens. In 1981. This one, near Peterborough, Cambs.
See the article by R. Powell in the East Anglian Magazine of November 1980, pp 24-26 (82.D.2.)

MakerSnowdons

Maker RoleManufacturer

Periodup to 1981

Place MadePeterborough

Place Noteshandfast

Place MadeBenwick/Doddington, Cambridgeshire

Place NotesApart from the handfast the remainder of the item manufactured in this area

Medium and MaterialsThis was made in 4 parts.
a) a steel curb chain,
b) a leather check rein,
c) 4/5 yards of 3 strand twist hemp line,
d) handfast or handpat, twisted and tapered hemp rope, turned, spliced and whipped to form a handle.

MeasurementsChain: 395mm
Strap: 1180mm
Rope Hank: 445mm

Object Typerein

Object numberSTMEA:82.A.56

Copyright LicenceAttribution - Non-commercial (cc)