Linchpin

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A linchpin is a pin inserted through an axle to keep a wheel in place. This iron example was found during excavations at the site of the Roman fort at Newstead in Roxburghshire. It dates from between 140 and 180 AD.

The linchpin has a squared off pin, and a loop attached to the broader head. A cord was probably passed through the loop to keep the pin in place.

Materials needed to set up and provision the forts in Scotland were hauled over short and long distances by horses pulling carts and wagons. Usually only the metal fittings and bindings of the carts survive.

Record details

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• Online ID: 000-180-001-430-C
• Image Rights Holder: National Museums Scotland
• Project: National Museums Scotland Part 2
  Project description   View all records in project
• Ref: National Museums Scotland  X.FRA 489
• Date: Between 140 and 180 AD
  
• Material: Iron
  
• Dimensions:
• What:
• Subject:
• Who: Newstead Collection
  
• Where: Scotland, Roxburghshire, Melrose, Newstead
  
• Event:
• Description: Three iron linchpins from Newstead
  
• References:
  • Curle, J. A Roman frontier post and its people: the fort of Newstead. Glasgow: MacLehose, 1911, p 294, Pl. LXX, 1. 
• Translations:
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