Accession Number

1986.008.0598a

Alternate object names

Shackle Bolt

Creation Date

circa 1620

Description

The shackles are of a particular type in which two U-shaped pieces with looped ends were fitted over a straight rod of iron. The rod had a flared end and a pierced slot in the opposite to receive a wedge-shaped forelock pin. The two U-shaped loops held a person’s ankles, and the locked rod bound them together. Shackles could be used to restrain someone who had become violent, but they were also as punishment for common and petty offenses. Crimes deemed punishable by shackling were numerous, and included insubordination, blasphemy, fighting, petty theft, and the hurling of insults. See also 1986.008.0598b, c.

Exhibition Label

Case Caption (2023):

Sailing The Ship

A galleon was a complex vessel, requiring expert handling at all levels. Both sailors and officers might develop a specialty, but they had to be able to perform a variety of jobs, as required. It was hard and sometimes dangerous work—a fall from the rigging either onto the deck or into the sea could prove fatal. Rations were poor and shipboard discipline was harsh. However, ordinary sailors were better paid than peasants or laborers, and they often enjoyed a sense of adventure.

Ideally, sailors of every rank went to sea as children and learned their trades by practical experience and apprenticeship. Many youngsters came from seafaring families, following in their elders’ footsteps. Others were running away from their families and eager to start their own lives.
Object Caption (2023):

Leg Shackles
Iron (c.1620)
Gift of Jamestown Inc.
1986.008.0598a-c

The boatswain’s mate was in charge of keeping discipline. Unruly sailors would find themselves “clapped in irons” and thrown into a hold until the mate released them.  Crimes included insubordination, brawling, getting drunk, blasphemy, and petty theft.