Spirit Barrel
Description
The remains of a spirit barrel. Several of the upright staves are missing as well as the top and base at either end. One of the staves has the letters ‘ID’ inscribed on it. This same marking was evident on the staves and ends of other spirit barrels from the Invincible and might be an indicator of its contents or place of origin. This small barrel was probably known as a ‘half anker.’ These contained about four gallons of liquid, most likely brandy or other spirits. There was a special room on board ship for keeping the spirit barrels since their potential combustibility made them as dangerous to carry as gunpowder. No candles were allowed in the spirit room, which was lined, locked and guarded, and they were only opened on deck during daylight hours where any fumes could dissipate safely and no artificial (candle) lighting was required.
See full details
Object Detail
Diameter: 230mm (9 1/16")