51/203

This is a chain used to hold restless cows, known as a 'bull leader' or 'bull dog'. The pincers would be secured around the cow's nostril and the ring slipped over the handles. They were made by Mr Brooks, a village blacksmith in Tiddington, Oxfordshire, in 1845.

1 bull leader: metal [iron]

MERL 'Catalogue index' card – 'According to Mr. Massingham, bull-dogs were originally used for holding a restless cow. The pincers were secured round the cow’s nostril and the ring slipped over the handles. The chain was then attached to the stall in such a position as to hold the cow’s head up. The only pain caused was when the cow tried to kick. In some areas they are still used. // These were made by Mr. Brooks, the village blacksmith of Tiddington, Oxon, in 1845. Mr. Massingham obtained them from Mr. Eborn of Woodstock, Oxon. // They are made of iron and are 10 ½” long with 28 ½” of chain attached. When correctly fastened, the gap between them is rather less than half an inch.', MERL list / description [Massingham Collection, October 1989] – 'ACC. NO.: 51/203 // NAME: BULL LEADER // NEG NO.: 35/17 // STORAGE: '

Tiddington

1845 - 1845