I have just recently bought a Boatswain Whistle. I got if for just under $7 on the cheaper than dirt website. (actually bought 2) I was intrigued by the whistle and have learned a little of its history. I am curious to know if anyone has a web site that shows the different types of commands or tones used with this whistle. The one i have is of German make (or so it says on the site) silver i color and in very good shape. It produces a very loud and shrill sound when blown through hard. Reportedly it is supposed to be heard over a mile away.

Sports referees have whistles. Bo'suns have pipes ( yes BMC Williams, Ill never call it a whistle again .) Anyone disagreeing will pipe down. www.unionnavy.org/page8.html Do a websearch for boatswain pipe and you will find several fun resources

Aye Aye Catptain! This scurvy dog won't call it a whistle again! Thanks for the link. I have been playing with this "pipe" and it is a nice little piece. And at $7 a good deal in my opinion.

So that's the origin of the expression "Pipe down"

40 years my mother's been telling me to do that, and I never knew what it meant until now <img src="images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" />

If this was a Leslie Nielson comedy I would seriously say " and god bless your mother for serving in our small but proud canadian armed forces. <img src="images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />"