Cunningham’s Patented Self-reefing Topsail: An innovative type of sail designed by Captain Cunningham in the 19th century, enabling sailors to reduce sail area (reef) without lowering the topsail or climbing the rigging. This was especially valuable in heavy weather, as it allowed for quicker adjustments from the deck, improving safety and efficiency. On shipwrecks, remnants of these self-reefing topsails or their mechanisms are rare but notable finds that indicate a ship may have been fitted with advanced sailing technology for its time.
