Re: origin of the word "fettler" ?

[Jack Russell <jackr@buffy.tpgi.com.au>]

I assume it comes from the same source as "in fine fettle" meaning to be in good
shape. A fettler put the rails into a healthy state.

Jack Russell


David Virgo wrote:

> I have recieved thye following question regarding fettlers and the WAGR. The
> question relates to the origin of the word "fettler".
>
> Can anyone help (and email the info to her)?
>
> Thanks
>
> ----- Original Message -----
> From: Jane Hammond <jjmusic@dits.com.au>
> To: <dvirgo@pcug.org.au>
> Sent: Friday, April 21, 2000 5:47 PM
> Subject: re: fettlers
>
> > Hi David
> > I happened upon your interesting site (very good photos!) and was
> > wondering if you could give me some tips on finding out about fettlers
> > on the net.  My grandfather worked on the Midland Railway in Western
> > Australia between maybe 1915 and 33.  He gave his occupation as
> > fettler.  Do you know the origins of the use of this word in this
> > context?  He lived with the rest of the fettler gang at Gunyidi, a
> > railway siding in a house built from railway sleepers.
> > Thanks
> > Jane
> >
> >