Blade or head of a Manx spade
Description: Part of the rusted blade of a Manx spade (spud), used by the donor's brother, Hugh Kaighen, at Little London. Straight iron blade tapering slightly towards edge. Sides folded over at back to form shaft socket.
One of the earliest references to the Manks Spade comes in 1521, when it is referred to by this name in an inventory. The Manks Spade was used for cutting blocks of turf to form a sod hedge, one of the most distinctive features of the Manx landscape.
The Manks Spade must be derived from a very early iron implement intended for use with poor and stony soils. Although it shares common features with similar spades found in Ireland and the Scottish islands, it is a truly unique piece of Manx agricultural equipment.
Measurements: L. 27 cm (of blade) W. 8.5 = 7 cm (of blade)
Materials: Iron
Object name: Spade
Collection: Social History Collection
ID Number: 1964-0002