Temple toggle iron

DateCirca 1851

Mediummetal

Dimensions37 1/4 in. (94.6 cm)

Donor credit lineKendall Whaling Museum Collection Transfer

Object number2001.100.4122

Institutional Credit LineCourtesy of the New Bedford Whaling Museum

DescriptionTemple toggle iron. Received mounted on a replacement shaft (now removed). Regarded as the most significant of all American harpoons, as it is one of very few known to have been made by the inventor, Lewis Temple himself, in his own shop, and the only one by his hand certifiably associated with a particular vessel or a particular voyage. Includes a length of cordage in separate package.ProvenanceOriginal Temple-toggle type made by the inventor himself and used aboard the ship "Canada" of New Bedford; Thomas West, master; right whaling on the North pacific grounds, 1 Oct 1851 - 4 Sept 1855 (vessel later lost in Brazil, 1856). Received mounted on a replacement shaft (removed), with fragile manila cordage likely not original. Condition otherwise very good, some rust and tar, scratches etc. from use, toggle and point intact.

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On view