Ships Binnacle – Navigational Compass
The ships binnacle is basically a container to show, protect and enhance the performance of the ships compass. It was a
Ships binnacle to case the ships compass
rectangular wooded locker with several compartments, to contain the compasses, log-glasses, watch-glasses, and lights to show the compass at night.
This case contained three compartments with sliding shutters, the two side ones ones holding a compass in each, and the middle one having a lamp or candle, with a pane of glass on each side to throw a light on the compasses at night.
The more modern binnacle , besides supporting the compass and containing arrangements for the illumination of it by night, is fitted with various devices whereby the magnetic needle is protected against the effects of shock and vibration, as also against the permanent and induced magnetism of the vessel in which it is placed.
