Boatswain's Whistle

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In the Age of Sail the men were focused on the shrill and piercing sound of the bosun's call.  The first warrant officer, also called the boatswain or bosun, was responsible for guiding the crew through the seas with his trusty whistle that could be heard above the waves and wind. With its traditional shape, unchanged for centuries, the whistle was the bosun's badge of rank. More than the ship’s captain, he was responsible for a pleasant or hellish voyage. The shrill sound of the whistle could be heard over the din of the howling wind, flapping sails and crashing waves.  That's when the crew had to act as one to save the cargo as well as body and soul.  Dozens of signals, from "All hands on deck" to "Men aloft" and "Pipe on the side" were routine and instantly obeyed. 

This little beauty is hand made of copper and brass and includes a brass plated chain and display box. A true collectible from times gone by, the whistle measures approximately 5" long.