Loy (spade)

A loy is a type of narrow, heavy spade traditionally used in Ireland, particularly for manual ploughing, especially in areas with heavy or rocky soil where a plough drawn by animals would be impractical. The loy is characterized by its long, single handle and a blade that is turned to one side, allowing the user to turn over the soil in a single, continuous action.

The use of the loy was particularly prevalent in areas of western Ireland where small landholdings and difficult terrain made traditional ploughing difficult. The process of tilling the soil with a loy is known as "loy digging" or "spade work." It involved a highly skilled and physically demanding technique that required considerable strength and coordination.

Beyond its agricultural use, the loy holds cultural significance in Ireland. Competitions in loy digging were common, and the loy is sometimes used as a symbol of traditional Irish farming practices and rural life. The design and construction of loys varied regionally, with local blacksmiths often crafting them to suit the specific soil conditions of their area. While largely superseded by modern farming equipment, the loy remains a part of Ireland's agricultural heritage.