Historical information
This scale is one of a number of items in a fishing basket that belonged to Arthur Rosser, son of Felix Rosser who was one of the early fishermen of Torquay. The tools and line kept in the basket may have been owned by Felix.
Significance
Felix Rosser was a well known early settler in Torquay. He became a local hero in 1891 when he spotted the SS Joseph Scammell stricken on the reef off Point Danger and played a pivotal role in the successful rescue of all passengers and crew ... and the ship's cat.
Physical description
Pocket spring balance that would have been used for weighing fish. At the top of the scales there is a metallic ring to fasten the object. This is attached to the main body on which is a bronze plate. On one side measurements are inscribed into the metal surface. There is a spring loaded mechanism which moves along the scales when weight is added to a hook at the bottom of the shaft.
Inscriptions & markings
EXCELSIOR IMPROVED SPRING BALANCE BELMONT-HDW-CO USA
