Also spawl. [Of obscure origin: cf. SPALE sb.3] A cross-spall; a crosspiece used in staging.
1895. Whitby Gaz., 12 July, 4/1. Boys frequently went up the spawls instead of the gangway because it was a shorter way on to the ship.
1898. Westm. Gaz., 23 June, 5/2. These were fixed together at the top by spalls, and strengthened by struts.
