https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ell
An ell (from Old
Germanic *alinâ cognate
with Latin ulna)[1] is
a unit
of measurement, originally a cubit,
i.e., approximating the length of a man's arm from the elbow ("elbow" means the bend or bow of the ell or arm) to the tip of the middle finger, or about 18 inches (457 mm); in later usage, any of several longer units.[2][3] In
English-speaking countries, these included (until the 19th century) the Flemish ell (3⁄4 of
a yard), English ell (5⁄4 yard)
and French ell (6⁄4 yard),
some of which are thought to derive from a "double ell"
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From: Archivists, conservators and records managers. [mailto:[log in to unmask]]
On Behalf Of Charlotte Berry
Sent: 15 April 2016 12:36
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Re: Friday afternoon query - definition for ells
Hello all
A Friday afternoon query – what is the precise definition of an ‘ell’ in terms of measuring distance? I have found it variously listed as 42” and “45.
If anyone else has any suggestions, please let me know!
Best wishes
Charlotte
Dr Charlotte Berry RMARA AMA FRSA
Cathedral Archivist
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