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This is a trap nest used in egg laying trials and the hen remained in the nest after ‘trapping’ until released by the poultry-keeper, who then recorded the egg laid. This example was made by the donor's grandfather in 1905 in Thatcham, Berkshire. The trap nest was exhibited at shows in Plymouth, Devon where it won a silver medal and Crystal Palace where it won a diploma.

1 trap nest: wood, metal

MERL Recording form – ‘Name of object- Model Trap nests for poultry // Name and address of owner- Mrs T. Parsons, Parkside Road, Reading // 5.2.1970 // How was it used: These nests were used in egg laying trials and the hen remained in the nest after ‘trapping’ until released by the poultry-keeper, who then recorded the egg laid // Used widely until ‘hen battery’ made its appearance // Who made it: Mr Parsons, Sawhills, Thatcham, Berks (1858-1938), donor’s grandfather // When was it made 1905 show organised by Utility Poultry Club at Plymouth // Where was it made: Thatcham // From what materials is the object made: wood and Plywood // Additional information: One of the nests won the award of a silver medal, with accompanying framed certificate. The other one won a bronze medal. Both medals are still in existence. Mr Parsons was engineer at the Sawmills of Messrs Brown & Sons, Thatcham, and he used to keep poultry for a hobby, I think there were a number of similar shows held at Plymouth in early 1900’x and also other shows at Crystal Palace.’, MERL 'Catalogue index' card – ‘Trap nest // Livestock Poultry housing // Rectangular box with two entrances at the front. One door to sprung plank, fixed with two hinges at side, second door with one hinge at base and closing latch at top. Box nailed // wood, metal-iron, cube, sprung lever door , nails and hinges rusted woodworm // Inscription- on side of the box- Margarine UDB fresh rolls 24- Black painted capitals. On closed door- Trap nest. Silver medal, Plymouth 1905 Also Diploma C.P.- Pencilled capitals. // Total- height-22cm, width-25cm, Length- 28cm. Trap door- height- 12cm, Width- 11cm // Closed door- height- 11cm, width- 15cm // [pencil drawing]’

Thatcham

Wood, Metal, iron