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This docking iron was used (before its prohibition) for cutting off young horses' tails. It was purchased by the donor at a sale of goods following the death of a blacksmith, possibly the maker, at Ashby de la Zouch, Leicestershire. It is inscribed with the name 'T.Mason' and 'Ashby Z' on the non-cutting handle.

1 docking iron: metal blade; wooden handles

MERL miscellaneous note - 'Whether Mr Mason had made the docking iron himself or merely used it, it is hard to say.', Object research project, Further Afield, February 2024 - This object was in use until 1949 when docking was made illegal. The bill was raised by Lord Merthyr in 1938.

Wood, Metal, iron