from Ceres, Fife
This measure for a standard yard dates from 1704 and was used by the chapmen of Ceres in Fife. A chapman was an early salesman who travelled on tracks and hill paths, carrying his pack of goods on his own or a pony's back. He also brought up to date news.
The measure is hinged in the middle so that it can be easily carried.
A chapman also carried bibles, chapbooks (pamphlets) and ballad sheets as well as fabrics, accessories, haberdashery and household items.
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