Thames Mudlarking: Searching for London's Lost Treasures(878 Shire Library)

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.

Table of Contents:
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

About the Author :
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.

Review :
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. 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. 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. "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. 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! 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. An engaging and accessible overview of the subject and the exciting wealth of insights that emerge from the riverbank.