[JohnBG8JMB]

Bit of history; from 1861 to 1964;
At numerous ports and fishing stations, many of which are Lloyd's signal stations, warning signals are hoisted in connexion with the Meteorological Office to advise as to the probability Of an approaching gale.

A cone [3ft high x 3ft across] pointed downwards means that strong winds are probable, at first from the southwards — from S.E. round by S. to N.W.

A cone pointed upwards means that strong winds are probable, at first from the northwards — from N.W. round by N. to S.E.

The drum is added to either cone when a very heavy gale is probable. No drum is used at dark, or without the cone.

The signal is kept flying until dusk and then lowered to avoid unnecessary wear and tear, but it is hoisted again at daylight next morning; and so on until the end of 48 hours from the time at which the message was issued from London, unless orders to lower the signal are received previously.

At dusk, whenever a signal ought to be flying if it were daylight, a night signal consisting of three lanterns hung on a triangular frame is hoisted in place of the Cone, point downwards (for South Cone), or point up*wards (for North Cone), as the case may be.

The hoisting of either of these signals is a sign that an atmospherical disturbance is in existence, which will probably cause a gale from the quarter indicated within a distance of fifty miles of the locality.

The signal is frequently kept flying after a gale is over, one gale being often followed by another within a very brief interval."

JohnB