This single purchase warehouse hand winch with a cast iron frame was originally used at the East India Company's Cutler Street Warehouse. The shifting pinion on the drive shaft engages with the large crown wheel attached to a wooden winding drum. The 'in gear' goods could be lifted. Heavier lifts were assisted by means of a counterweight rope attached to a smaller drum. A simple foot operated friction brake enabled goods to be rapidly lowered with the drive shaft 'out of gear'.
