Please identify this object ...

Encountered this on vacation in Mackinaw City. I'm not nautically inclined.

Not sure what it's called, but there would be a rope or chain about the middle of the object. The square holes around the top would permit a bar of some sort to be used to "winch" the rope/chain. At least I think that's what it would be for.

Capstan.

These were used on the older ships. Each rectangular hole about the perimeter was fitted with a bar and people stood behind these and turned the capstan which raised the anchor.

Thanks.

Naturalist wrote in post #8715089
Capstan.

These were used on the older ships. Each rectangular hole about the perimeter was fitted with a bar and people stood behind these and turned the capstan which raised the anchor.

Thanks. I know I've seen them before, but didn't know the name. I was even in the Navy and didn't know that. I guess that's what I get for spending all my time w/ Marines.