Kelpie Sculpture Part of Boat Lift

July 1, 2008 4:52 PM

The functional giant Kelpie heads would rock backwards and forwards as part of a mechanism allowing boats to move through Scotland's lowland canal network. "Although the Kelpie legend does talk of the mythical creatures luring seafarers into the water, British Waterways is quick to point out that anyone travelling through the boat lift will be given a small bridle which according to legend would tame the creature and allow safe passage." (via they must need bears)
posted by joannemerriam (3 comments total)

What's up with the UK and giant horse sculptures?
posted by doctor_negative at 5:09 PM on July 1, 2008

That's pretty cool-looking.
posted by Tehanu at 7:51 PM on July 1, 2008

Well, if they do, they're lucky; the man in the next thread down just saved one for them.
posted by sonic meat machine at 9:00 PM on July 1, 2008