IRON SLAVE SHACKLE, SOUTH CAROLINA

First half of the 19th century. Purchased in Abbeville, South Carolina about 1955. 20" total length extended. 11 pieces comprising two broad rolled shackle constructed to minimize injury to the captive. One end with simple loop closure and the other with compound double loop for securing to the master chain or other restraint. Excellent with stable brown surface rusting and old pitting. Shackles of this type were used in Africa by slavers, worn through the trans-Atlantic voyage and the slave markets of which Charleston was the largest.