Historical Significance and Acquisition
Located in the heart of Finland, the Raahe Museum proudly houses one of the oldest diving suits in existence, known as the “Wanha Herra” or the “Old Gentleman.” Donated to the museum in the 1860s by Captain Leufstadius, this leather-clad marvel dates back to the early 18th century, highlighting significant advancements in diving technology during that era.
Craftsmanship and Design
Crafted primarily from cow leather, the Old Gentleman showcases meticulous craftsmanship. Its seams are sewn with waxed thread and sealed with pitch, ensuring waterproofing with a mixture of pork fat, tar, and pitch. The suit features a hood-shaped head reinforced with a wooden framework, accommodating a wooden air pipe. Divers would enter through a front opening sealed to the waist, creating a waterproof “sack mouth.”
Diving Mechanism
Air supply for the Old Gentleman was facilitated through a network of wooden pipes connected by leather, powered by either a piston pump or bellows. Despite not being fully watertight and unable to withstand high pressure, the suit allowed inspections of ship hulls without dry docking or tilting.
Origins and Recognition
Believed to originate from Finland, the diving suit’s design includes boots resembling traditional short-shanked Finnish boots and gloves akin to those worn by Finnish foresters. A 1727 drawing found in Sweden’s National Archive resembles the Old Gentleman, aiding in dating its manufacture. The suit gained international acclaim, featuring in exhibitions worldwide, including Lisbon’s 1998 World Exposition and Philadelphia, earning the nickname “venerable Old Gentleman of Raahe” during London’s Sea Finland exhibition in 1985.
Conclusion
The “Wanha Herra” symbolizes Finland’s 18th-century diving ingenuity, reflecting a period of maritime exploration and innovation. As a cherished relic at the Raahe Museum, it continues to fascinate and honor Finland’s maritime heritage, showcasing the nation’s enduring spirit of innovation and historical depth.
