60/582

R. W. Rich (Manufacturer)

This pick axe handle was made at R. W. Rich’s Steam Wood Works of East Hoathly, East Sussex, circa 1945–6. The handle is made of ash and has been cleft by hand to follow the natural grain of the wood, giving the handle a strength and toughness not achieved through machine cutting. It is a cylindrical handle which is widened and flattened towards the end, and was for a pick axe used in drainage digging. It is part of a large collection of traditional craft products acquired from the British Council in 1960.

1 pick axe handle: wood (ash); good condition

MERL miscellaneous note, B. L. 22 March 1961 – ‘The British Council collection. // This collection of material which is covered by the accession numbers 60/430 to 60/791 contains examples of craft products made in the British Isles. The major part of the collection was prepared immediately after the Second World War for a travelling exhibition which was sent to Australia and New Zealand. // The collection was purchased for a nominal sum by the Museum in two portions, the one in the summer of 1960 and the other in February 1961. // For further details see the individual catalogue cards and the catalogue prepared for the temporary exhibition of the collection.’, MERL 'Catalogue index' card – ‘This ash pick axe handle comes from R.W. Rich’s Steam Wood Works at East Hoathley, Sussex. // Length: 35 5/8 in. // Cross section at the head: 3 3/8 ins’, British Council Ref. No. not given.

East Hoathly

1945 - 1946

Handle, Pick axe