– New exhibition ‘Secrets of The Thames’ at London Museum Docklands in 2025. – Showcases items like a Viking dagger and Tudor hat. – Mudlarking dates back to Victorian times, requiring permits today. – Exhibition runs from April 4, 2025, to March 1, 2026; tickets on sale from February 2025.
A fascinating exhibition titled ‘Secrets of The Thames: Mudlarking London’s Lost Treasures’ will be unveiled at the London Museum Docklands next year, showcasing a variety of items retrieved from the River Thames, including a Viking dagger and a Tudor wool-knit hat. Mudlarking, the act of searching the riverbanks for valuable artefacts, has roots in the Victorian era, when poverty-stricken families scavenged for useful objects. Today, while mostly a recreational pursuit, mudlarking requires a permit from the Port of London Authority, and any findings over 300 years old must be reported to the museum. The Thames, known for its archaeological significance, provides a rich site for discovering hidden treasures, including some unexpected items like a pair of false teeth. The exhibition is set to run from April 4, 2025, to March 1, 2026, with tickets available from February 2025. Additionally, there is a mudlarking weekend at the museum scheduled for September 28-29, 2024, for those eager to learn more before the full exhibition opens.
The upcoming exhibition at the London Museum highlights the practice of mudlarking along the River Thames, which allows individuals to search for historical objects amid the river’s sediment. This tradition dates back to the Victorian era when mudlarkers sought remnants to make a living. Today, it connects enthusiasts with the city’s heritage, although modern regulations govern the activity to preserve significant historical finds.
This upcoming exhibition not only displays important historical artefacts recovered from the Thames but also illustrates the ongoing fascination with London’s rich history. Mudlarking continues to be a popular activity that reveals untold stories beneath the river’s surface, with an emphasis on responsible collecting.
Original Source: www.timeout.com