Lilly Leg Irons

I thought it would be interesting to gather all my Lilly Leg Irons together to see any differences.  I had not realized the difference in sizes of the cuffs.  The originals had only five flat links which made it very hard for the prisoner to move around and caused injury to the leg.  At some point in time a longer chain was adopted using a twisted chain usually attached to the cuff with a flat chain link.  The irons on the far right has a lead overfill not allowing the cuff to be fully closed, but it still "locks".  Another set had absolutely no lead installed leading me to believe it was never finished at the factory.  There are no markings on any of the leg irons.

I plan to make another posting for the shackles and key.

Ron

Amazing collection of Lilly Leg Irons, Ron!
-Richard Knip-

Ron, is the thread on the bolts consistent at least?? Everything else seems to vary. We had speculated about Lilly Hand Irons being made at different Navy yards to a pattern. That leaves it open to particular blacksmiths being able to make certain kinds of chain or using what chain they had available etc. It would also explain the variations in hand irons.

Paul, interesting idea to check the thread.  Will see if I have a gage and give them a check.

Just checked the threads and four are 1/2 / 13 and three (1 five links and two twisted longer chain)  have a thread pitch of 12.  I did not have a die to check the diameter for the 12 pitch but I think it is slightly smaller than the others.  Also one (5 chain links) has a smaller size head than all the others.  

I don't think this is enough data to make any guesses as to their manufacture.

Ron