Weasel

There is some controversy in academic circles about the correct name for this device. The popular story is that this the weasel of "Pop Goes the Weasel" fame. Whatever its correct name, it was a measuring device. If someone did not have access to a loom, he or she would take the spun yarn to a weaver to have it turned into fabric. The yarn was tied to one of the spokes of the weasel, and the wheel was turned. Inside was a gear with a ratchet that "clicked" with every full circuit (2 yards) of the wheel. After a certain number of circuits you would hear a loud POP! which would be the signal that the correct length of yarn had been measured out.

Examples of Mountain Furniture

Weasel  |  Spinning Wheel  |  Painted and Grained Blanket Chest
Baby Cradle  |  Chest of Drawers, circa 1840  |  Corner Cupboard
Chest of Drawers, late 18^th Century  |  Corner Cupboard, circa 1840