Spoke shaves are tools traditionally used by wheelwrights to shape the spokes of wooden wheels. The wheelwright would normally hold the tool in both hands then pull it towards them, the blade of the tool shaving off small amounts of wood every time it is used, similar to a draw knife used by carpenters. Wheelwrights were important to West Berkshire’s industrial history, particularly with it being situated halfway between London and Bristol. This importance is acknowledged with Hungerford and Lambourn both having public houses called the Wheelwright Arms.
Watercolour of St Mary’s Church, Shaw
Watercolour by Antony Warren of St Mary’s Church.