David,
 
In dealing with about 400 probate inventories from Plymouth Colony, Maryland
and Bermuda (1670-1679), I find the only references to 'shackles' clearly
indicate a piece of hardware for fastening things together (particularly
with reference to plows and other draught gear).  'Fetters' are usually
'horse fetters' in all three colonies. However, there are a few ambiguous
uses in Mary land where 'fetters' may be for either animal or human use.  In
only one instance was the usage clearly for restraining servants/slaves.
 
fetters: 2 references from Bermuda, 17 from Maryland, 14 from Plymouth
shackles: 10 references from plymouth, none from Maryland or Bermuda.
 
Mary Ellin D'Agostino
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