The vine staff, vine-staff, or centurion's staff[1] (Latin: vitis)[2] was a vinewood rod of about 3 feet (1 m) in length used in the ancient Roman army[3][4] and navy.[5] It was the mark and tool of the centurion:[6] both as an implement in the direction of drill and maneuvers[citation needed]; and to beat wayward or laggard soldiers or sailors under his command.[7] It was also borne by evocati who held an equivalent rank.[8]
- ^ Robinson (1975), p. 157.
- ^ Brand (1968), p. 83.
- ^ D'Amato & Rava (2012), pp. 38–39.
- ^ D'Amato & Rava (2013), p. 38–39.
- ^ D'Amato & Sumner (2009), p. 20.
- ^ Webster 1979, p. 132.
- ^ Walters (1997), p. 40.
- ^ Lewis 1890, p. 206.