Anchor

Anchor. . , Functions of an anchor. , . Gain hold on the bottom and provide resistance to dragging , . Maintain the hold in changing wind conditions , This anchor is typical of those used for centuries. It consists of a large heavy stock, although the original wooden stock on this anchor has been replaced over the years. Set perpendicular to the stock is the shank tipped with two flukes. When dropped, the stock will land flat on the lake floor. This orientation will drive one of the flakes into the bottom. The fluke is designed to catch on any type of lake bottom, rock, mud, or sand. , Unfortunately, the design that works so well on the lake bottom is very difficult to handle on deck, so this type of anchor is seldom used today. , (sidebar) , Capstan for retrieving the anchor. , The capstan is a vital piece of equipment used to retrieve a heavy anchor. It is a hand-pushed vertical winch. , The anchor line was wound around the barrel until it caught on itself. Then men pushed levers rotating the barrel to pull up the anchor. , Wooden levers were removable and numerous pigeonholes allowed for assignment of the appropriate number of men based on the difficulty of work. , Gearing below deck was set to the capstan could not slip back.