A beautifully illustrated introduction to mudlarking which tells the incredible, forgotten history of London through objects found on the foreshore of the River Thames.
Often seen combing the shoreline of the River Thames at low tide, groups of archaeology enthusiasts known as ‘mudlarks’ continue a tradition that dates back to the eighteenth century. Over the years they have found a vast array of historical artefacts providing glimpses into the city’s past. Objects lost or discarded centuries ago – from ancient river offerings such as the Battersea Shield and Waterloo Helmet, to seventeenth-century trade tokens and even medals for bravery – have been discovered in the river.
This book explores a fascinating assortment of finds from prehistoric to modern times, which collectively tell the rich and illustrious story of London and its inhabitants - illustrated with and array of photographs taken of the items in situ in the mud and gravel of the Thames estuary, at the same time both gritty and glimmering.
A beautifully illustrated introduction to mudlarking which tells the incredible, forgotten history of London through objects found on the foreshore of the River Thames.
Often seen combing the shoreline of the River Thames at low tide, groups of archaeology enthusiasts known as ‘mudlarks’ continue a tradition that dates back to the eighteenth century. Over the years they have found a vast array of historical artefacts providing glimpses into the city’s past. Objects lost or discarded centuries ago – from ancient river offerings such as the Battersea Shield and Waterloo Helmet, to seventeenth-century trade tokens and even medals for bravery – have been discovered in the river.
This book explores a fascinating assortment of finds from prehistoric to modern times, which collectively tell the rich and illustrious story of London and its inhabitants - illustrated with and array of photographs taken of the items in situ in the mud and gravel of the Thames estuary, at the same time both gritty and glimmering.
Introduction: Mudlarking
Megalodons, Woolly Rhinos and Flint Tools
Rituals and Votive Offerings
Vanity and Sex
Zoomorphic Art and Viking Attacks
Pilgrims, Knights and Betrayal
Opulence and Witchcraft
War, Fire and Love
Death and Decadence
Empire and Invention
Keep Calm and Carry On
Eternal River
Liquid History
Places to Visit
Further Reading
Index
A beautifully illustrated introduction to mudlarking which tells the incredible, forgotten history of London through objects found on the foreshore of the River Thames.
Originally from the United States, Jason Sandy is an
architect and developer who moved to London in 2007. He discovered
mudlarking in 2012 and has contributed to many articles and books
on mudlarking, as well as lecturing, appearing on national
television, and having an active presence on social media.
Based in London, Nick Stevens is a professional photographer
and a member of the exclusive Society of Thames Mudlarks. He
appeared in all three seasons of History Channel's Mud Men and
co-founded the Thames Museum Trust, which aims to establish a
museum around mudlarking finds.
A bite-sized and accessible social history with a clear reverence
for the mudlarks who have helped to paint a more intimate picture
of the city’s past.
*Apollo Magazine*
Organized chronologically, the book is packed with over 150 color
photos of the historical artifacts found by London mudlarks. These
objects recovered from the river tell the story of London and its
inhabitants over the past 2,000 years, each adding a new
perspective to the history of London. It's a beautiful visual
history of London, and a fun read.
*Beachcombing Magazine*
Thames Mudlarking gives a great insight into the vast range of
everyday items that can be recovered from the Thames foreshore.
From Stone Age to Victorian, Londoners have lost or discarded a
fascinating array of artefacts. Modern day erosion now threatens
their survival. The book relates how ordinary people can get 'hands
on' with history in the muddy bed of the Thames.
*Ian Smith, Chair of The Society of Thames Mudlarks*
"Good things come in small packages," as is often said, and with
this book, they certainly do! No 'history lovers' bookshelf should
be without it. Veritably crammed with facts and quality
illustrations which take the reader through an exciting experience
of 'time travel' via artefacts discovered in and alongside one of
the most famous cities and rivers in the world.
*Julian Evan-Hart, Editor, Treasure Hunting Magazine*
I've stopped searching... this new book is indeed a treasure.
Anyone who loves a bit of history, a good story and not afraid to
get muddy, this book is for you!
*Jeannine Saba, Editor, The Covent Gardener Magazine*
This is a book that informs, inspires and – most importantly --
makes you want to train your eyes to see the treasures that lie
below your feet. Reading this book will make you breathless to
begin your exploration. It also teaches how to treasure hunt
responsibly and reminds that what you find you share.
*Dan Cruickshank*
An engaging and accessible overview of the subject and the exciting
wealth of insights that emerge from the riverbank.
*Minerva*
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