The Crane. 14th Century Windlass. Simple forms of both the windlass and the crane are known to have been in use as early as the 14th century for hoisting purposes; especially on board ship; at the ports; and at the head of mineshafts and wells. In principle the windlass resembles the capstan; the difference being that the former exerts a vertical pull and the latter a horizontal. Steam Floating Crane. One of the largest revolving floating cranes in the world is that illustrated; constructed by Messrs Cowans Sheldon and Co; Ltd; Carlisle. It is capable of lifting 350 tons at 100 feet radius; or 300 tons at 121 feet radius. The total height from water level is about 240 feet. Illustration for one of a set of cigarette cards on the subject of Past & Present issued by Wills in 1929.