A Mudlarking Year, by Lara Maiklem - Tom
I first became aware of mudlarking in the mid 1960’s when as a young Police Constable in the City of London Police I saw what I thought was a man stuck in the mud on the north bank of the Thames. Thankfully this was in the days before personal radios were issued to all so I was saved the embarrassment of calling for assistance. The man saw my confused look and told me what he was doing.
For those not aware Mudlarking is exploring mainly the banks of the Thames between high and low tides. Mudlarkers are looking for lost or abandoned items which the activity of tides reveal now and again. Some items are quite commonplace and turn up in greater numbers than others. Most items found can be traced to various employments along the edge of the Thames or even employment on the river itself. Others can come from the far reaches of what was the known world in the early years of London as a city.
This is the second of her books about Lara Maiklem’s passion of Mudlarking and whilst some of the items found may appear mundane and of little interest, the enthusiasm of the author shines through. She gives short explanations of many of the items found and some reference to their historical use and reason for being in the area where found. In addition to an introduction to mudlarking we gain a very gentle lesson on the history and geography of London.
I am fascinated by history, particularly of London, and this author has referred to issues that have sparked my interest in areas I have not given a great deal of thought to previously. This is a book I will return to again and again. I recommend it to those with an inquiring mind as it will take you down unexpected paths.
Tom
