Help with Artifact off 19 Century Sunken Steamer

[callicles]

Hello. I found this on a sunken 19th century steamer. I posted it on What Is It thread and it was identified as a Beam Clamp. My questions to you guys are: Were beam clamps used on 19 century steamships? Have any of you seen anything similar to this from other shipwrecks? I'm trying to rule out a cat fisherman's trot line weight. It has the look like other artifacts coming off the wreck but just wanted to ask here. Thanks.

 

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[kingskid1611]

How heavy is it? That would be one heavy looking weight for a fishing line

 

[callicles]

Hey, thanks for the response. I have not weighed it on precise scales, but it is every bit of 13 or 14 pounds. I've set my share of trot lines before and I agree it would be too heavy for that, but I'm just trying to rule out other possibilities. I guess one question is when were beam clamps invented? For all I know the Romans used them. Then again, for all I know, beam clamps were invented in 1920! I've Googled them, but can't determine the historical aspects of beam clamps.

 

[kingskid1611]

It looks like it was hand forged but I am not an expert.

 

[seekerGH]

I would say they are correct, it does look like a beam clamp.

When invented, well, when steel ships were around, mid 1800's

 

[callicles]

Thanks guys. I'm going to consider it as a possible part of the ship. When I eventually make a display of all the items, I'll just leave this object's identification open-ended so posterity won't think me too stupid!