Sillakiinnittymää

Sillakiinnittymää, often translated as "herring attachment," refers to a specific type of fastening or mounting method historically used in the construction of wooden boats and ships, particularly in regions where herring fishing was prominent. This technique involved the use of wooden pegs or dowels, often made from dense hardwoods like oak or beech, to secure planks to the hull. The term "sillakiinnittymää" directly links the method to the boats used for catching herring, implying it was a robust and reliable system suited for the demands of such vessels.

The process typically involved drilling holes through the overlapping planks and then driving the wooden pegs through these holes. These pegs would then be carefully shaped or tapered to ensure a tight fit, often being hammered in with significant force. Over time, as the wood absorbed moisture, the pegs would swell, creating an even more secure and watertight bond. This traditional method was favored for its durability and ability to withstand the stresses of open-water sailing and the constant flexing of a wooden hull. Unlike metal fasteners, wooden pegs were less prone to corrosion and could be more easily replaced if they failed. The effectiveness of sillakiinnittymää contributed to the longevity and seaworthiness of many historical fishing vessels.