The stemhead fitting is the fitting that the lower end of the forestay attaches to the boat. On aluminum toerail 17s this is the aluminum casting at the bow (stemhead) of the boat. Three holes running athwartship thru the fitting for the forestay, headsail tack and an additional hole that is frequently used for a headsail downhaul attachment point. On the M-15 and wooden toerail M-17's the fitting is a SS plate affair and I am unsure of the number of attachment points - it has been a long time since I had the great fortune and luck to have owned a most special M-15. I do not recall the fitting. -oldguyittis. Stays - in line with the keel and Shrouds on the sides. Chickenheads are named after the beak shape of some (usually fractional) masthead fittings. There is a great book called "Origins of Sea Terms" by John G. Rogers The American Maritime Library vol. XI Mystic Seaport - "1248 entries pertaining to life onboard ship,hulls and rigging, shiphandling, sea and weather conditions, and naval and technical terms." In light of the scholary weight of this tome, I suspect my definitions may be far from perfect! Gary O. M-17 #316a