Object Record
Images
Metadata
Object Name |
Bell, Animal |
Title |
Sheep bell |
Catalog Number |
1997.32.251 |
Date |
ca. 1880 |
Material(s) |
Sheet iron |
Dimensions |
H-3.5 W-3 D-2.5 inches |
Description |
This is a simple one piece sheet steel bell folded down and riveted on sides. The steel strap is riveted to top and there is an iron nut on wire riveted inside for clapper. This may have been tarred black. |
Notes |
Used by the donor, his grandfather, Isaac T. Murphy (d. 1902), and his father, Harry "Cot" Murphy (1870-1945), on their Jefferson County farm and later the donor's Oldham Co. farm. Unlike cattle, where only the lead cow wore a bell, all sheep wore their own bell, as they easily became lost, and were more vulnerable to predators. The Murphy's gave up sheep-raising when it became too difficult to protect their flock from wild dogs. |
Collection |
Tom and Bea Murphy Collection |
People |
Murphy, Tom |
Subjects |
Bells Sheep Sheep ranches Farming Farms |
Search Terms |
Jefferson County (Ky.) Oldham County (Ky.) |
Physical Holder |
Kentucky Historical Society - KHS |