The Whipstaff Part II

Abstract

The increased size of ships in 13^th and 14^th centuries led to the development of rudders initially controlled by a tiller below decks. The whipstaff, essentially a long lever attached the tiller and situated on a deck provided line of sight steering for the helmsman and improved mechanical advantage. The relative advantages of side-rudders, the stern rudder predecessor is discussed along with illustrations and structural drawings showing the location of the whipstaff.

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Filed under: Atlantic | High Middle Ages
Subjects include: Shipbuilding & Design