Capstan Demonstration (Mystic Seaport)

Staff and volunteer visitors demonstrate working of a capstan on the training vessel Joseph Conrad at Mystic Seaport (Conn.). They are just pulling up a boat at the side of the ship. July 2008

The chantey is "Old Moke Pickin' on the banjo"

Category:

Education

Tags:

• capstan
• shanty
• chantey
• mystic
• seaport
• handspike
• pawl

[chengloki]

hult, I really think that "Cap" was turned the wrong way. It's been a long time, but I think I'm right. =Stefan=

[hultonclint]

I can tell you one thing: I *wish* it went the other way, if only because I feel more comfortable walking that way! :)

[chrthiel]

It can go both ways, though it appears that they've moddified the capstan somewhat. Originally, to topmost tiers of holes (Where the bars go in) should have been connected to an anchorwing underneath the forecastle. The second tier moves the main drum

[PeterHerreborg]

I think it can turn both ways but that this is the most common.