OLD WORLD PLUMB BOB DESIGNS BY JOSEPH HAESCHE

The earliest and most accurate way to cut a straight line , long before the laser came to the hands of craftsmen was to snap a line coated with chalk. The idea of chalking a line , putting tension on both ends and giving it a snap worked just fine , for ever!

Still used today without the need for a battery the chalk line has not gone the way of the Dinosaur. Here shown from my small collection are two wooden chalk troughs . The craftsman took pride in his tools back in the day . Today the concept is still in play but only for a few.

Shown also are a few vintage Plumb Bobs . Many of these were turned in the shape of staples of the day. Often are seen the turnip or onion , carrot or pear. The acorn was and still is today one of the most widely used decorations. The pineapple , symbol of welcome and friendship also seen among the early Plumb Bobs.

The Gentleman's Spool was a seldom used device to pay out and retrieve the Plumb Bob. A long way from the massive 50 pound Plumb Bobs used in constructing large bridges . This little spool was used in the home , by the man of the house no doubt. Perhaps the choice was the Tall case clock or the level to keep it in balance, both were expensive .The cheaper solution might be the miniature Plumb Bob. Here are a few of my interpretations of such a spool.