Historical information

This wooden proddey has a rounded handle and a cone shape with a point at the bottom. It is used for making rag rugs. The wood is discoloured at the pointed end, indicating that is has been used. The tool is part of the W.R. Angus Collection.

Traditionally, in the 18th and 19th centuries, rag rug making was a domestic craft. Old or worn-out fabrics and clothing would be cut into strips then proddey would be used to poke the strips through a woven backing fabric. The fabrics were re-purposed and the rugs provided warmth or protected the floors from fluids or dirt.

Significance

The proddey is an example of a tool used for rag rug making, in the 18th and 19th centuries. The handcraft returned to popularity in the early 20th century.
W.R. Angus Collection is significant for still being located at the site it is connected with, Doctor Angus being the last Port Medical Officer in Warrnambool.

Physical description

Proddey; teardrop or conical shape, light-coloured wood, used for rag rug making. Tool has a rounded handle and is decorated with two scored lines around the top of the cone.
Part of the W.R. Angus Collection.

Dr Angus lived and worked in Warrnambool with his family from the 1930s to the 1960s. He was the last doctor to pe appointed as a Port Medical Officer. He and his wife were actively involved in the local community. He enjoyed several pastimes, such as billiards, weaving, pastel drawing and rag rug making.