Thames Mudlarking: Searching for London's Lost Treasures: 878

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.

Jason Sandy is an American architect and property developer in London. He is a member of the exclusive Society of Thames Mudlarks. Jason’s mudlarking adventures have been featured on national television in Britain, Germany and Canada. He has written extensively about mudlarking for magazines in Britain and USA. His mudlarking collection has been exhibited in the British Museum, Tate Modern and other cultural institutions. Jason also lectures about mudlarking in schools, universities and organisations.

Nick Stevens is a professional photographer living in London and has been a member of The Society of Thames Mudlarks since 2010. Nick appeared in all three seasons of the hit TV show 'Mud Men' filmed for the UK History Channel. He has also shared his love of Mudlarking on numerous other factual programmes including Digging for Britain, Discovering Britain and the Hairy Bikers-pubs that built Britain. Nick regularly writes articles for magazines and has lectured and organised many exhibitions displaying some of the incredible finds made by Thames mudlarks. He is also the co-founder of The Thames Museum project which aims one day to create a visitor attraction in London showcasing many of the incredible finds made by Thames mudlarks. To promote The Museum concept Nick has been active in ‘bringing the Museum to the people’ with events at The Tate modern, The Thames Festival, Goldsmith’s College and the Guilds of Pewterers and Cutlers.