Many of us have been enjoying walks along the river, but did you know that at low tide it becomes England's largest archaeological site, revealing riches spanning centuries? Jason Sandy, a Member of the Society of Thames Mudlarks, and Chiswick resident, will be giving a talk on mudlarking, a tradition dating back to the 18th century, for the Emery Walker’s Trust, Hammersmith on Saturday April 24th.
For just a few hours each day at low tide, the River Thames foreshore is transformed into a mystical place of possibilities, exposing finds dating back to prehistoric times.
Licensed mudlarks can access the largest archaeological site in Britain, an enchanting surface of rocks, oyster shells, broken glass, bricks, tiles, animal bones, sand, gravel and mud, searching for hidden treasures exposed by erosion and the waves of passing boats. Jason’s historically significant artefacts are on display in various museums in Britain, but he also possesses an eclectic cabinet of curiosities containing artefacts which offer insights London life throughout the ages right up to the present day.
“Over the past 2,000 years of human activity along the River Thames, countless objects have been unintentionally discarded or accidentally dropped into its waters. The river has been an extraordinary repository of these lost objects, protected and preserved in the dense anaerobic (oxygen-free) mud.” explains Jason, who will share some of his favourite mudlarking finds and their own unique stories.
Jason is an American architect and developer who has lectured and written many articles about mudlarking as well as appearing on national television. He co-authored “Thames Mudlarking: Searching for London’s Lost Treasures” published in 2021 by Shire Publications and available at Blackwells, WH Smith, Waterstons, Foyles and online bookstores.
This live, interactive talk is part of a programme of monthly events via Zoom organised by Emery Walker’s House Trust. Entry is by donation. Please prebook via Emerywalker.org.uk.
