The James T. Callow Folklore Archive

THERE IS A TRADITIONAL NAVY CUSTOM PLAYED ON ALL NEW CREW
MEMBERS. A CIRCLE OF SAILORS SURROUNDS A MEDIUM SIZE BOX
WITH A SMALL HOLE CUT IN THE TOP. WHEN THE UNSUSPECTING
VICTIM APPROACHES AND QUESTIONS THE PURPOSE OF THE BOX,
HE IS INFORMED THAT IT CONTAINS A SEA BAT, AND THAT HE
SHOULD PEER INTO THE HOLE TO SEE IT. UPON DOING THIS, HE IS
STRUCK FROM THE REAR RESOUNDINGLY WITH A HEAVY DECK BROOM.
WHEN HE SCREECHES IN PAIN, THE MEN INFORME HIM THAT HE HAS
JUST BEEN BIT BY A "SEA BAT."

Where learned: MICHIGAN ; ALMA

Date learned: 03-09-1970