Eel Gig

Dateca.1800-1850

MediumWrought iron

DimensionsOverall: 15 x 8 1/16 x 5/8in. (38.1 x 20.5 x 1.6cm)

Credit LineGift of the Sealantic Fund

Object number1988-335

DescriptionWrought iron eel gig of conventional form, consisting of four graduated arms with hooked ends, fixed into a central rib by a pair of wedges. All eight hooks are upturned and face inward. Originally mounted on a long wooden pole, the rib is pierced for attachment at the top, and has a rectangular aperture through which the hooked arms pass. Below, the bar becomes flat and ends in a rounded tip.
Label TextAlthough eels are now considered bait fish by most Americans, in past centuries they were thought as delicious as their finned and scaled cousins. These snake-like fish were best caught with a nasty looking contraption like this one, called a gig. Used like a spear, when thrust into the eel's habitat, the arms would trap and spring around the body of the eel, while the sharp hooks would prevent escape. On this example, the hooked arms are held into the body of the gig with wedges, allowing the tool to be disassembled for cleaning or sharpening.
ProvenancePart of the furnishings of Carter's Grove when acquired by Colonial Williamsburg, erroneously listed on an inventory as an "antique bacon rack."

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