Summary

Metal timber clamp. Used at Newmarket Saleyards by Melbourne City Council. Specifically used to move/pull timber and logs for the repairing and building of yards, fences and buildings. Usually about 5 foot long, could have had a hook at other end.

Maintenance of the Newmarket yards was done by the Melbourne City Council. It mainly involved replacing rotten or broken timber fence rails and posts; repair of fittings on gates and rails; re-laying bluestone pitchers; and cleaning and maintenance of the administration buildings. The yard rails were made of hardwood, some of the older posts were jarrah but most were red gum. Sometimes damage to the yard would be caused by animals pushing against fences or becoming stuck between fence rails. Emergency maintenance and repairs had to be made during the sales, with the work being done quickly around the stock.

Physical Description

Clamp fashioned from a long shaft of iron waterpipe which is bent up slightly and hammered flat at one end to meet a hinged "jaw". Held onto the shaft with a cuff and bolt. Appears not to be professionally manufactured.

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