Sailmaker's palm thimble
Date made: 19th century
Maker: unknown
Description: This is a type of thimble known as a sailmaker's palm. It belonged to James Gorry, a fisherman from Port St Mary, who would have used it when making repairs to the sails of his fishing vessel. It would have protected his hand from the tip of the needle when pushing it through the fabric.
It comprises a leather strap to fit over the hand, inset with a metal disc in the centre of the palm. A needle is also attached.
Although a large number of secondary trades such as sailmaking and netmaking surrounded the Manx fishing industry, it would have been important for the fisherman to be able to carry out his own running repairs from time to time. Fishing vessels often travelled hundreds of miles from the Isle of Man in search of a catch, and if damaged in a storm for example, crews would need to be able to patch up torn sails in order to get home.
Measurements: overall: 13 x 9 x 3 cm
Materials: animal: leather, metal
Object name: palm thimble
Collection: Social History Collection
ID Number: 1954-3735
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