Monkey Winch
Photograph courtesy of David Paterson, Edinburgh.
Photograph from Bush Estate nr Edinburgh showing a Monkey Winch which was used to help fell large park trees in the desired direction.
This hand winch was used extensively throughout the Commission for all sorts of heavy pulling and lifting and universally disliked as it was very heavy, difficult to handle and very slow.
The end of the winch frame on the left had a wire rope which had to be tied around a tree or anchored with ground anchors (plates with long iron spikes driven into ground). The heavy wire on the drum was pulled out with difficulty from the drum to the tree or bogged tractor and fastened on. The long lever worked a pawl that pushed a pushed a ratchet wheel around driving the drum to wind in the cable. Another moveable pawl locked the wheel to prevent it running back.
Any stories of events using this machine would be very welcome.
Groups: Tools, equipment and clothing