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A graduated linen rule or tape measure, marked in inches and feet, in a metal case. It was found by the donor in his father's shed in Ashburton, Devon, while clearing it out after his father's death in 1983. It is one of a number of objects found in the shed by the donor and donated to MERL (object numbers 83/98-83/128).

1 tape measure: linen, metal

MERL 'Handwritten accession' form (Institute of Agricultural History) – 'Recorder: JMB // Date: 13.12.83 // Description: A graduated linen ribbon contained in a metal case. It measures inches and feet. After pulling out the length required it can be rewound by means of a folding handle. // Dimensions: Diameter of case: 10.5 cm // References: MERL 5850 ‘Dictionary of Tools’ by R. A. Salaman p.400’, Letter, MERL to Roger Plumb, 10 October 1983 – 'Dear Mr Plumb, // Thank you for leaving the boxes of items at the Museum recently. We have kept some of the objects, one (the telephone) has been passed on to the Science Museum, the rest, being of no interest, we have discarded. // Yours sincerely, // Roy D Brigden // Keeper, Museum of English Rural Life'

Rule, Tape measure

Metal, Fibre, flax