Historical information

This is a branding iron used by the Warren family on their farm in the Nerwmerella/Orbost district. It was locally made, probably by a blacksmith in Orbost. Hot iron branding was a typical method of identifying stock, usually cattle or horses. The iron was heated in a fire and then applied to the flank of the animal where the 'W' brand remained as a scar on the animal.

Significance

This item is significant because it is identified as belonging to the Warren family, and also because of it shows the methods used to identify stock until the last decades of the 20th century.

Physical description

A long piece of iron rod with a ring at one end and a forged W shape at the other end.

Inscriptions & markings

'W' for Warren family brand