In past years when livestock depended on hay as a winter feed, their diet was somtimes supplemented with Beet, Turnips or Mangles (Very large Root veg mostly comprising water and sugar). Before feeding these veggies needed to be copped into more manageable sizes. This device (handle is missing from the front) could very quickly shred large amounts into long thinner pieces roughly the size of an orange peel. Throw the veg in the top, keep turning the handle and your feet will be covered very soon.
This version is made by Pierce's of Wexford and was once very common. Sadly Pierce's went into liquidation a few years ago.
Enjoy the flowers!