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Southdown wool is, or was, used in the bunting trade. Meaning the wool was used to manufacture flags.

The wool has a handle that is called 'Harsh' meaning it is not soft to the touch though the harsh feel makes for a tough fibre that can be woven as a loose fabric so giving the bunting an easy drying ability. This ability to dry quickly allows the bunting to fly readily and not lay limp beside the flagpole or rope holding the bunting aloft.

One hundred and more years go they were no man-made fibres to choose from hence the Southdown wool and other Downs wool breeds were ideal for this trade.

As there were also no radios and such most communications at sea were conducted using a continuous supply of bunting made from Downs type wool.

Ken White, Tasmania. Australian Professional Woodclasser, now retired.

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15y ago

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