‘Sounding Machine’ with lead and tallow cup, circa 1875
Thomas Walker, Birmingham
Maker:
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NavigArte
Thomas Walker’s Patent No. 343 depth-measuring machine. At the bottom of the lead is a hollow cavity, known as the ‘tallow cup’. When filled with tallow, it collected seabed samples during retrieval, allowing navigators to assess the nature of the seabed and use this information for navigation.
Walker’s brass depth log with two dials, one reading 0 to 30 fathoms and the other from 0 to 150 fathoms. The rotor is free to rotate as the log is lowered, but when the line is drawn up again a locking piece drops down and holds it in place. Stamped with anchor mark and signed T. Walker’s Patent and number 343. The lead has a piece of rope to be attatched at the sounding machine. On the lid of the original pine case remains of instructions. To the top of the lid a brass retailers plaque of H. Hughes, 59 Fenchurg Street, London.