The Cochrane Gavel. The silver boar's head inscribed 'HMS COCHRANE

The Cochrane Gavel. The silver boar's head inscribed 'HMS COCHRANE, PRESENTED TO THE WARD ROOM OFFICERS', by Nathan & Hayes, Birmingham 1906, with a later handle, 6in (15cm) l. HMS Cochrane was named after the eccentric Admiral Sir Thomas Cochrane (1775-1860). A stormy character, who after a distinguished career in The Royal Navy during the Napoleonic Wars, founded and fought for the Navy of Chile against Spain. HMS was one of four armoured cruisers of the 'Warrior' class and was launched in 1905. The gavel is thought to have been presented by the builders on the completion of the warship in 1906. The arms of the Cochrane family of Woodbrook depict the Boar's head, tusked, as do the Earls of Dundonald (family name Cochrane).