What is a shillelagh stick used for?
Please see my full disclosure policy for details. A shillelagh also known as an Irish walking stick, is a knotty blackthorn cane with a large, round, and polished knob at the top. This wooden walking stick has historically been used as a club or cudgel.
Why is it called a shillelagh?
The name comes from the Shillelagh Forest in Co. Wicklow. It was originally created as a strong fighting stick when weapons weren't allowed. It has evolved to become a sturdy walking stick that is lightweight and a symbol of distinction. Because blackthorn wood is created in nature, no two are exactly the same.
What kind of sticks do you use for walking?
CATEGORIES Walking Sticks Classic (O'Caidhla) Handle (O'Caidhla) Rambling Sticks Fighting Sticks Shillelagh Staffs Clubs Battle Clubs Bailiff's Clubs Casual Clubs Cudgels Lucky Shillelaghs Wands Exhibition Pieces INFORMATION Walking Sticks Made from the extremely durable Irish blackthorn wood, these sticks make a truly wonderful walking companion.
Where are your shillelaghs made?
All of our Shillelaghs are crafted from locally sourced Blackthorn. Treated & seasoned for 3-5 years in our unique fashion and expertly finished to preserve them in the modern environment. All of our sticks are inscribed with two markings: "Made in Shillelagh, Ireland." and our stamp of authenticity - "O'Caidhla"
What is an Irish fighting stick?
It's an Irish fighting stick. Shillelagh comes from the words sail éille, translated into English means thonged willow-stick. In Irish, it translates to “descendants of Éalach,” and the Gaelic know a shillelagh as a bata or fighting stick. Shillelaghs are a popular gift store item in Ireland.
Why is it called a shillelagh?
Etymology. The name shillelagh is the Hiberno-English corruption of the Irish (Gaelic) form sail éille, where sail means "willow" or "cudgel" and éille is genitive for iall meaning "thong", "strap", "leash", and "string", among others.
What are Irish walking sticks called?
ShillelaghThe name Shillelagh comes from a forest in Co. Wicklow. However, shillelagh became a generic term for any Irish walking stick. Traditionally the canes or walking stick were made out of oak.
Can a shillelagh be used as a walking stick?
A shillelagh is a type of stick that is usually shorter an not intended for walking, useful for both walking and defending oneself. Blackthorn wood typically makes the shillelagh.
What is an Irish shillelagh used for?
The shillelagh was originally used as a gentleman's weapon in duels and disagreements. Shillelagh fighting is much like sword fighting in that the wielder must skillfully parry and disarm their opponent. Shillelaghs used in modern sparring are split into short, medium, and lengths.
How do you pronounce shillelagh in Irish?
2:096:24How to pronounce ' shillelagh ' - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipWe would say no it's it's actually from the word for sticks which is shillelagh shillelagh. AndMoreWe would say no it's it's actually from the word for sticks which is shillelagh shillelagh. And again this is you know depending on where you are we're in Ireland.
What is a Scottish walking stick called?
1 Answer. Scottish walking sticks are also called canes. They're typically made of wood and have a ball on one end for someone to grip.
How do you fight a shillelagh?
To use the shillelagh properly in a fight the club is snapped out at the wrist, not swung like a cudgel, and held towards the middle of the weapon. Advanced fighters grab two sticks and throw down in a Troid de Bata or “two-stick fight”. The stick of the offhand is used as a shield.
What is a shillelagh worth?
This ornate special featured Irish cane can be sold for hundreds or even thousands of dollars however most Shillelaghs are sold for less than $100.00.
How long should a shillelagh be?
about three feet longThe shillelagh itself is a single piece of blackthorn or oak about three feet long. Longer sticks were called wattles and could be six or eight feet long. Shorter ones, about two feet long, would be called kipeen. Generally, the root knob is at one end and some are loaded, that is, impregnated with lead.
What is the history of the shillelagh?
The Shillelagh was the primary weapon used in Bataireacht – a form of traditional Irish stick fighting popular in the 18th and 19th centuries. During the 18th century bataireacht was practiced primarily with Irish gangs called “factions” who often fought each other at gatherings and events.
What is a lead loaded shillelagh?
Some sticks are listed as being lead loaded meaning that the head is filled with lead for the purpose of granting a superior walking experience and unrivalled balance.
What is the history of the shillelagh?
The Shillelagh was the primary weapon used in Bataireacht – a form of traditional Irish stick fighting popular in the 18th and 19th centuries. During the 18th century bataireacht was practiced primarily with Irish gangs called “factions” who often fought each other at gatherings and events.
What is a Scottish walking stick called?
1 Answer. Scottish walking sticks are also called canes. They're typically made of wood and have a ball on one end for someone to grip.
How long should a shillelagh be?
about three feet longThe shillelagh itself is a single piece of blackthorn or oak about three feet long. Longer sticks were called wattles and could be six or eight feet long. Shorter ones, about two feet long, would be called kipeen. Generally, the root knob is at one end and some are loaded, that is, impregnated with lead.
How old is the shillelagh?
John Brady opened the Old Shillelagh in February of 1975. The fact that he was a retired Detroit police officer, proved to make the Old Shillelagh an immediate success. The second floor was added only one year later, on parade Sunday 1976.
Where did the Shillelagh stick come from?
The surrounding area belongs to the Barony of Shillelagh. This Irish place name comes from the Irish language and means the descendants of Ealach (Siol Éalaigh).
What is the weapon of choice for an ancient form of Gaelic stick fighting called?
It was also the weapon of choice for an ancient form of Gaelic stick fighting called 'bataireacht.'
What Does a Shillelagh Look Like?
A shillelagh is usually a black stick with a polished wooden knob as a handle at the top.
What is the name of the willow stick in Irish?
Irish Language And Gaelic Names For Shillelagh: The word we use today, shillelagh is Hiberno-English. In the Irish language or Gaeilge the word would be sail éille (pronounced shal eh-la) and which means a willow stick with a strap. ‘Sail’ is the Irish word for “willow” or a ‘cudgel” and éille is the genitive case of iall (pronounced eel) ...
What is the traditional material used for making a shillelagh?
The traditional material used for making a shillelagh is the wood of a blackthorn tree.
How long is a shillelagh bata?
They also come in the form of short mallets measuring only 12 to 24 inches in length. These would be known as shillelagh bata (pronounced shill-ay-lah bah-ta) and this hammer form of shillelagh is what is usually found in souvenir shops and associated with leprechauns.
Where did the Shillelaghs fight?
Shillelaghs in Irish American Culture: The Irish brought shillelagh fighting with them to America. Reports of a shillelagh frolic are found in the New York American Newspaper of March 31, 1825 where several hundred sons of Erin gathering for the event. In 1837 a large scale faction fight broke out in New Orleans.
Shalaylee
Actually, it's spelled " shillelagh ". It's Irish for a walking cane (that can be conveniently used as a club or cudgel ). Usually ornamentally carved. Common in Ireland but purchased by tourists for decoration /art.
shalaylee
A comical word for penis, as used by John Leguizamo, with an irish accent, in his 1 man theatrical performance.
shalaylee
Naval term - a piece of sun-dried salt-encrusted canvas fire hose that has been cut to a managable length and is used to flog wogs with on wog day.
shine the shalaylee
O'Ryan loves to shine the shalaylee whenever his wife is gone to her mother's.
How many spikes does a shillelagh have?
When learning how to make a shillelagh, be aware that the limbs of the hawthorn tree providing the wood might have as many as five spikes!
Where did the walking stick come from?
The traditional walking stick's name comes from an old Gaelic word meaning "oak club.". Centuries ago these weapons were made of oak, cut from a great forest near the village of Shillelagh in County Wicklow.
Why did the shillelaghs come down?
(or at least to solve the problem until the next fair was held). On such occasions the shillelagh was seldom swung with just one hand, but grasped in the middle with both fists and brought down with head-splitting force. Sometimes, however, an extremely strong man would use two shillelaghs: one to fend off attacks, and the other to bash his opponent.
How big should a shillelagh be?
Since a shillelagh should measure about 36 inches when finished, make certain that the rough stick you've set your sights on is somewhat longer. To get at the cane-to-be, eye your way through the thorny latticework and plan your maneuvers carefully.
What wood did the Irish resisters use to make canes?
After that, shillelaghs—far from disappearing along with the oak—simply began to be made from the wood of the Irish blackthorn (a species of hawthorn), and the innocent-appearing "canes" became the Irish resisters' main weapon in their continuing struggle against the conquerors.
How much is a Gaelic cudgel?
Today the shillelagh is a symbolic souvenir of the Irish spirit, and—according to New York City's largest cane shop—the Gaelic cudgel is one of the best-selling (at prices from $30.00 to $37.50 each! ) types of walking stick.
Where are Lucky Shillelaghs made?
We offer a selection of "Lucky Shillelaghs", available in 3 sizes which are ready to order. Each piece comes with "Made in Shillelagh, Ireland ." written on the head and can have a standard or customised inscription included on the shaft. Makes a perfect gift.
What is a walking stick made of?
There is nothing quite like the feel unique well balanced walking stick. Made from the extremely durable Irish blackthorn wood, these sticks make a truly wonderful walking companion. A lighter stick will be ideal for a brisk stroll - great for controlling a dog and pushing away wild brambles.
What are fighting sticks?
Our fighting sticks are styled on the sticks actually used in martial arts stick fighting. They undergo a different seasoning process to our other sticks, necessary to produce a balanced, fast, and accurate weapon. Although they can look like walking sticks they are not always suitable for use as a walking aid due to the different grip and feel of the stick. They are designed to be carried by holding the shaft about a third of the way down. "With your shillelagh under your arm." These sticks are finished with an oil based finish for those who would like to spar with their stick or a matt varnish finish which requires no maintenance for those who do not intend to use their stick for sparring.
What is a Shillelagh cudgel?
A Shillelagh Cudgel is almost like a miniature club. They range from 12" - 18" and are ideal for personal protection and also find use as gavels. These hand crafted beauties can make a great family heirloom and will make a great conversation piece for years to come. Shop for Cudgels.
Why are Shillelagh staffs so hard to come by?
Shillelagh Staffs are rather hard to come by because as blackthorn grows longer it tends to get thicker and this allied to the density of the wood can make them quite heavy to manoeuvre. Traditionally, more a symbol of status or power, our specifically harvested Blackthorn makes an incredible heavy duty staff.
What is a Shillelagh stick?
Throughout history there have been many styles of stick which have been referred to as a Shillelagh. The earliest known reference dates back over a millennium ago. These sticks were a club which became associated with the people who used them extensively for warfare and personal protection.
Where are Shillelagh sticks made?
All of our sticks are inscribed with two markings: "Made in Shillelagh, Ireland." and our stamp of authenticity - "O'Caidhla"
What are walking sticks made of?
Made from the extremely durable Irish blackthorn wood, these sticks make a truly wonderful walking companion. A lighter stick will be ideal for a brisk stroll - great for controlling a dog and pushing away wild brambles. Whereas a heavier stick can be a serious means of self-protection. All our walking sticks are finished with brass tipped ferule and a gloss varnish finish which fully seals the wood and protects the stick from loss of moisture. Should you ever scuff or mark your stick this finish can be easily repaired using common materials found in any hardware store. Some sticks are listed as being lead loaded meaning that the head is filled with lead for the purpose of granting a superior walking experience and unrivalled balance.
What are fighting sticks?
Our fighting sticks are styled on the sticks actually used in martial arts stick fighting. They undergo a different seasoning process to our other sticks, necessary to produce a balanced, fast, and accurate weapon. Although they can look like walking sticks they are not always suitable for use as a walking aid due to the different grip and feel of the stick. They are designed to be carried by holding the shaft about a third of the way down. "With your shillelagh under your arm." These sticks are finished with an oil based finish for those who would like to spar with their stick or a matt varnish finish which requires no maintenance for those who do not intend to use their stick for sparring.
Why are Shillelagh staffs so hard to come by?
Shillelagh Staffs are rather hard to come by because as blackthorn grows longer it tends to get thicker and this allied to the density of the wood can make them quite heavy to manoeuvre. Traditionally, more a symbol of status or power, our specifically harvested Blackthorn makes an incredible heavy duty staff.
Where are Lucky Shillelaghs made?
We offer a selection of "Lucky Shillelaghs", available in 3 sizes which are ready to order. Each piece comes with "Made in Shillelagh, Ireland ." written on the head and can have a standard or customised inscription included on the shaft. Makes a perfect gift.
Can you put an inscription on a walking stick?
Inscriptions can be placed on the shaft or on the head of the item (where space allows). You can also choose to have no inscription if you so desire. Walking sticks can be fitted with a removable rubber tip that fits directly on top of the standard brass-tipped ferule finish.
