Anchor Chain Question

diverlynn

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Below is a photo of some chain links on display at Kellyco in Orlando. I was in there this week. Can anyone tell me how early this chain was produced? The display said 1733 for that particular few links.. If any one knows who found the chain that's there would also be a great help (I think it may be Bob Weller).

Thanks
Diverlynn
 

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Re: Anchor Question

Hi Lynn: got your message. I had heard anchor chain was used as early as the late 17th century...but I could be wrong.

Hope this page helps you a bit: http://www.solarnavigator.net/anchor_chain.htm

You could also inquire on SUB-ARCH if you are a member there.

Tom
 

Re: Anchor Question

Thanks Tom, that's good news.

Diverlynn
 

Re: Anchor Question

Put a date on this anchor an you have the date for kellyco's chain.
 

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Re: Anchor Question

After 1820, that is when iron cross bars began use. The studded anchor chain began about the same time period, and is still in use today.
 

The anchor in question had a wooden cross bar about the size of a tel. Pole and approximately 14' long. The flukes are much different than in the pic above.

diverlynn
 

I doubt the chain or Fisheye's anchor (photo) came off one of the 1733 wrecks. Other than the wooden cross bar another key might be the size of the ring on the anchor: large ring for use with rope, small ring - later period used with chain or cable rode.
 

The anchor in the photo is a kedge anchor. Date: about 1830 or later.
 

How many feet of that chain would you like, pulled up about 75 feet of it ,each link about 6" long. Here in the Bahamas.
 

anchors ---iron cross bars used after 1800 ---wooden cross bar 1799 or earlier --- big eye ring = rope -- small one = chain ----- while chain used the late 1700's but was not common till the 1810 ish period (rope being much cheaper had alot to do with that --- insurance companys pressured ship owners to use the chains or pay high rates--- ships dragging anchor in a storm was a leading vause of loss --the haevy anchor chain helped a vessel hold bottom better and was let apt to break) --- later the flukes were more rounded curved design --older ones ) 1500 - 1600 tend to have have a sharp V shape
 

Hey AJ
We are waiting for the weather to clear just inside the St. Lucie inlet and will be heading off shore in a day or two. The anchor chain question has us possibly rechecking some hits and holes from last summer. We may also work the "Unknown Wreck" south of the Power plant. We have several areas in mind right now plus a new endeavor which will be announced later this spring that doesn't have anything to do with treasure.

Diverlynn :thumbsup:
 

I saw the Polly-L in Jupiter Inlet just a few days ago......
 

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