Tent Ridge Pole Hanger

This is not a very common item these days but if you’re looking at this, then you already know what this is!

On the chance you’re unsure what you’re looking at though, this ridge pole hanger is placed over a tent ridge pole. The ridge pole being the top piece of wood that sits horizontally at the peak of a tent. This slides over that ridge pole to hang down and give you hooks. If you look at the first image you can see one in use. This was an encampment for the 3rd Maine Infantry Regiment who is a group of Civil War reenactors.

This tent ridge pole hanger is forged from 3/16″ x 3/4″ solid steel. It’s designed to fit over a 2″ x 4″ ridge pole or equivalent round pole (1.5″ diameter). Even though it has a rounded top it will just as easily fit over square lumber as well. It’s a snug fit to sit perfectly and that snugness keeps the hanger from sliding around on you during use.

The hanger has plenty of strength to hold pretty much anything you need to hang, be it a lantern, backpack, or other camping supplies. It’s a wonderful addition to any tent and perfect for reenactors setting up encampments and who need a little more storage or want to keep things off the ground.

The height of the hanger is 12″ and features the a hook on either side. The ends of those hooks end in a volute (curl) so they don’t poke into your clothing that’s hung from them.

A paste wax is applied to the hook and will help prevent rust and corrosion but it will rust if exposed to water and moisture. You could paint it if you wanted to for an added layer of protection. I leave it with a wax finish though as it’s something that historically accurate.