A THATCH HOOK AT IVINGHOE

This long implement fixed to the wall in Ivinghoe is a thatch hook. It must have taken several men to be able to wield that effectively.

During the 18th century insurance companies issued small plaques to the houses which had insured with their company. If that particular building caught fire the company's brigade would turn out to save it - but only houses with well-off inhabitants would be able to afford such a payment. The ordinary villagers would expect help from neighbours and others (interested in saving their own homes!) who would use the hook to drag burning thatch from the roof of the burning cottage.

The item underneath it is a mantrap...