Original History

The History of the Hammock and the Birth of a Brand

A hammock slung between shade trees, that’s the picture so many of us have of perfect relaxation. But not every yard has two strong trees the right distance apart, and not everyone wants to be tied to a single spot. That’s where Cap’n Josh’s invention changed everything.

Early Hammock History & the Need for Innovation

Sailors have used hammocks for beds since the days of Columbus, with the British Navy and early American commercial ships adopting the practice. Yet these early canvas or rope hammocks were small, cramped, rough, hot, and prone to tipping. In the late 1800s, riverboat Captain Josh struggled for a better night’s sleep. Existing designs were uncomfortable and unreliable; 19th-century rope hammocks were coarse against the skin, unstable, full of bulky knots, and made from weak materials like hemp that could easily break leading to the infamous “rude awakening.”

Cap’n Josh’s Craftsmanship & Invention

Determined to improve the hammock, Cap’n Josh began experimenting with better materials and smarter design. His ingenuity led to two key innovations: The Double-Latch Weave: A strong, wide, knotless sleeping surface made from heavy cotton rope woven in a durable lattice pattern.

The Spreader Bar: Crafted from oak barrel staves, this bar holds the hammock bed wide and stable, keeping knots away from the sleeping area for a smooth, comfortable rest.

These innovations created a durable, handmade rope hammock that was comfortable, reliable, and built to last.

The Brand Origin: Pawleys Island Today

Cap’n Josh’s design proved a winning formula. The Original Pawleys Island Rope Hammock became the template for classic American hammock style, and one of the most recognizable hammock brands in history. The Original Hammock Shop, founded by Cap’n Josh’s family in 1935 on Pawleys Island, South Carolina, continues this tradition today. Handmade with care, the basic design remains largely unchanged: Materials: Varnished white oak spreader bars and heavy-duty, weather-tough hanging chains and O-rings

Production: Rope bodies are still woven onsite, fitted with hand-tied clew knots and harness ropes

Quality Control: Every hammock undergoes a final inspection to ensure it meets Cap’n Josh’s original high standard

Whether for lounging, reading, or soaking up the sun, these classic, durable rope hammocks carry forward a century-long tradition of quality craftsmanship.