Historical information

The Churchill Island collection includes objects from the 1800s. The collection is presented in sets and series, of which this object belongs to the National Trust sub-collection.

Significance

Wool presses were used in shearing sheds around the country to create bales of wool by hand in preparation for transport to the wool markets for purchase and distribution. A standard wool bale holds about 60 compressed wool fleeces and weighs a minimum of 120 kgs. The square shape and weight enabled them to be stacked on wagons or in warehouses, and a large pack horse could carry one on each side.

Physical description

Large, retangular upright metal wool press, unpainted with some surface rust.