Besom Broom (Handle)
Description
Handle for a besom broom. ‘Besom’ is a historical term given to a bundle of twigs tied together and secured to a handle. The simple design of a besom brush served the important purpose of ‘breaming’ the ship. This is the practice of burning off the seaweed, barnacles and other growth on the hull of the vessel. Despite the obvious risk of fire, this was an essential cleaning task since even the slightest hull growth would slow a ship down. Ships that were known to have been breamed at Chatham including the 100 gun HMS Royal Sovereign.
See full details
Object Detail
Catalogue Number
INV.107
Classification
Collection
Measurement Display
Length: 1005mm
Diameter: 27mm (1 1/16")
Weight: (0.25kg)
Diameter: 27mm (1 1/16")
Weight: (0.25kg)
Primary Prod Date
Primary Prod Period