Jan 14, 2010

Dutchman's pendant and Irish pendant

These two are included only to differentiate, as many seamen use them synonymously. Dutchman's pendant refers to a gash rope's end not secured in a seamanlike manner - a dig at the Dutch.

The Irish pendant refers to the frays and tatters of bunting that develop in the fly of an ensign or flag that is exposed to strong winds for any length of time. The reference is to untidiness born of a carefree nature in. the Irish.