Mudlarking the River Thames - A Mystery find emerges from the mud (& several military artefacts)

As the mud is washed away by the tide, a new layer of finds is revealed - and some of them are rather mysterious. On this outing I discovered several beautiful artefacts, many of them linked to naval and military history. One of the objects which surfaced is rather mysterious and large. I took it as I particularly love the copper nails and they have admiralty / broad arrows stamped on them. I would love to know what its purpose once was so if you know please comment below.
In this video I show one of Germander Speedwell's new pipe finds. You can find Germander on twitter @GermanderS and her website is germanderspeedwell.org.uk
I also show one of Jennifer Kelly's amazing creations and her website is here: www.creativetotheheart.com
You need a permit from the PLA to mudlark on the Thames and you can find the info at pla.co.uk
Thank you for watching. Follow me on twitter and instagram @tidelineart and if you would like to donate a small amount via my kofi account the address is
ko-fi.com/nico...
All donations will be used to improve my channel and to cover costs.
Thank you to everyone who has already donated.
Nicola White
www.tidelineart.com
#mudlarking #nicolawhite #tidelineart

[@JonFrumTheFirst]

For anyone interested, here's a video of WWII-era London with computer-generated improvements of the film. There are two views of the Thames, along with many street scenes. Very different from today. kzbin.info/www/bejne/h33FgYyHmLqWna8

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

Thank you. I'm going to enjoy watching this

[@simonnicholls5619]

Hi Nicola, I think you mystery object is a rudder bracket which would originally have had a pivot pin at the points end

[@scienceistruth1924]

Hi Nicola, the mystery object is a ships rudder gudgeon, often made of galvanised iron or gunmetal, there are usually two, a top and bottom one to fit over pins (pintles) fixed to the transom of the boat. The width of the object is the thickness of the wooden rudder it would have housed so looking at it it was about 3 inches which is enormous and would have been on a very large vessel, such as a barge, The copper nails are used as rivets and are held in place with a rove on one end, a sort of washer which is pushed on and the nail peened over. The gudgeon and pintle make up a hinge joint for the rudder to turn.These near identical type of fittings are still used in boat building and are still familiar to a wooden boat builder today. Davey and Co who have been going since the 19th Century still supply them and they might easily be the original makers, hope that helps.

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

Thank you John. That's hugely useful! really appreciate your help. Nicola

[@daver425]

The mystery object would be a gudgeon. Part of the hinging arrangement for a wooden rudder. The mate is the pintle. See en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pintle

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

Fantastic, Thank you! I shall study this link later this pm

[@jonathandill3557]

Apparently, square copper nails are still used for making sailboats today since they don't corrode underwater like iron or brass would. The square shape is supposed to make the wood less likely to split than the conical tip of a wire nail. The thing that looks like a washer is something called a rove that makes it possible to mushroom the end of the nail to turn it into a rivet.

[@tracyriordan7011]

Great eye!

[@matthewspencer5086]

Thank you! For some years I have been wondering why "Gudgeon's Meadow" between Bedford and Cardington is so called. The river Great Ouse divides into the "Lower River" or "Navigation Channel" and a by-water linking the Lower River to the "New Cut" which is a flood relief channel into which the "Upper River" overflows. I should think it's where you might need your rudder or tiller to work, really quite urgently as I've seen the by-water reverse its direction of flow by 180 degrees when the river is full. Gudgeon's Meadow was used as an athletics ground prior to the building of what is now known as the Paul Radcliffe Stadium, on the other side of the intricate river-engineering.

[@lordofchaos-t2e]

How gratifying to have that confirmed, it was what came to my mind too. I am no expert, but spent enough time sailing on the seas to have seen such things!

[@custardthepipecat6584]

The mystery object is sea stirrup for riding sea horses, i remember this from a previous life when i was in the Queens under sea highland lancers. 😸

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

Thank you! Mystery solved at last ❤️😃

[@aleta5873]

@@nicolawhitemudlark Lol!

[@robertgemski6524]

Great answer 👉🏼 are awesome 😎

[@dbkmk9378]

Hahaha good one.

[@kaybaxter4249]

@@robertgemski6524 1 Ł L L LPP

[@annhalton1963]

So sweet how you rescue the crabs and fish and feed the swans. Wish there were more kind souls like you :)

[@PattyPorta]

You have made the nightmare of the pandemic (and here in America, the political riots) less stressful by introducing peaceful river sounds and intriguing mudlarking finds. Thanks.

[@heehaw8401]

There are no political riots in the US

[@karel81]

@@heehaw8401 You sure about that, mate.

[@crow-jane]

Weren’t all the *protests* last summer? We haven’t had a riot since 1.6.

[@janearcher3834]

There were mostly protests in the US in 2020. It's what is needed to bring some issues to the fore of public consciousness and affect a change.

[@jennynevins6329]

Mostly protests?? Six police officers killed, several civilians, a billion dollars of property damage, many businesses vandalized, etc etc. Five way to bring attention to violence I guess .

[@MrLotrecht]

10:36 a grease valve ! The fish knows where the journey goes! He was so calm didnt jump around- great job!

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

yes I am very relieved he didn't jump off the trowel

[@guadalupeknippen2636]

Nicola, I must say, hands down you are the best eagle eye mudlarker. You find the tiniest objects. I kept gasping at each item you uncovered. The catering badge and the very long nail with the broad arrows might have been the best. Also the grouping of tiny metal pieces that formed a fish, just fabulous!!!!! I love how your artistic mind works. Thank you, thank you for a great mudlark adventure. ❤️🇺🇸💟

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

Thank you so much for watching and for such a lovely comment xx

[@juanitabefort8829]

Oh, and i loved the fish you made with the metal finds..

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

thank you!

[@ericball6000]

Nicola, buttons buttons buttons everywhere, I say get the Nicola doll on the shelves by Christmas, it would make a smashing gift, cheers.

[@leighbush4177]

Love the little metal fish 🐟

[@thanrose]

Barbie Nicola was delightful! Wonderful job and creative accessories. One blobby glass was an onion bottle, Barbie sized, I think.

[@0210rokvist]

Always a pleasure. Love the fish

[@charlesperez9976]

Nicola,you know that I adore you,you know that I am a super fan. The beginning of this video,with the mermaid in the sand,it captured my heart. You are such a delight! 🥰

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

so glad you enjoyed that Charles! x

[@crowznest438]

The last part of the vid edited with your research and items cleaned up is fantastic! I know that's a lot of work but it makes your vids stand out.

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

Thanks Jeanne ❤️

[@Beth_D]

What a lot of lovely things you found! I jumped when I noticed the demon dog sat behind you during the round up 😱😂

[@susanbdusan2785]

The more times I see it, the cuter it gets. Love that grin!

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

@@susanbdusan2785 it's true, it does get cuter!!

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

Thanks Beth. Yes the dog is right at home now and is very happy x

[@DataCymru1701]

My great grandfather was in the catering corps, I have his medals on display and a certificate he was awarded with for his work in the community after the war!

[@judylutz1702]

Sunday is my favorite day of the week. I look so forward to your videos.

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

Thanks Judy. So glad you enjoy them xx

[@gaiaocracy]

Wow! Great opening sequence!

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

Thank you!

[@presbyterosBassI]

That is a very elegant cardigan. Looking lovely, as usual.

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

Why thank you!! x

[@bronwynleeper2806]

What a lovely introduction!🌻

[@thurin84]

4:14 sure looks like another coin in the upper left. always love the military finds! that big metal bracket looks like maybe a keel or rudder reinforcement.

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

Thank you!

[@patstats1]

Certainly was a coin at frame 4:42 nestled in the space above your middle and index fingers of your left hand!

[@lugenewhittenberger1983]

Yes, I saw that, too. I was checking the comments to see if anyone else saw it.

[@suzanneearp86]

Nicola, I love mudlarking - by default! - alongside you. Did you know (you probably do!) That the remnant of tobacco still left in a pipe is called a "dottle"? Thank you for another lovely and informative video today.

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

Hi Suzanne, no I didn't know that, but now I do and it's a wonderful word! Thank you so much

[@rockreader4298]

Thank You, Suzanne. I just learned something new. : ) Dottle sounds much better than glob. Lol

[@christyrich9495]

Your Barbie is awesome! Jennifer included such great details. Side note: Finding the comments on this video very informative

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

Thanks Christy. Yes, we are so lucky to have such a great community on this channel I have to say. Everyone is so helpful and knowledgeable x

[@susanwylie9890]

OMG ...just sitting down after dinner with a cuppa to enjoy Sir Tony on the telly...talking about the Thames, and who do I spot in her familiar striped top and flowing golden hair!!! Hello Nicola...on tv in New Zealand. But we don’t get too excited ...it’s probably a repeat!

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

Hi! Oh how funny. I hope you enjoyed it. I remember that outing very well. It was a lot of fun xx

[@tonygiraldes7848]

Just the greatest channel and content creator! 😊❤️

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

Thanks Tony!

[@MaMaSmo123]

Love your channel. US here. Usually watch on big TV can’t comment there but here to see what the heck that Navy piece might be lol. If you find out please include in next video. Curiosity killing me….. But while I’m here… great channel always interesting, always entertaining & always relaxing. Great job! God Bless & happy mudlarking to you!!❤️💐👍🏻🍀

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

Thank you ❤️

[@justdustino1371]

Before the American Revolution, in the American colonies, large straight trees suitable for use as a ship's mast were property of the crown, regardless of where they may be. A tax collector would mark these trees with the broad arrow using a hatchet and hammer. The Pine Tree Rebellion that preceded the War of Independence had to do with a Tax Collector finding illegally harvested trees with broad arrows on them in a saw mill. Not everything had a broad arrow though. Alot of British equipment was used by the Confederacy and brass pieces of a British bayonet scabbard I dug were stamped with a crown, and "V. R.".

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

Thanks so much Dustin. I always appreciate the facts that you come out with including this one. I know that putting the broad arrow on even the nails helped prevent people from stealing them... x

[@vicarious1717]

Mast Road got its name from the large white pine trees that were reserved by the King to make masts for the Royal Navy when New Hampshire lands were first granted. ... Anselm College and Pinardville, which was named after Edmond Pinard, a grocer who owned property on the Manchester/Goffstown town line.

[@justdustino1371]

@@vicarious1717 Now that is interesting! It wasn't long ago I saw a house for sale up there, either in NH or VT, I don't remember! But the house , it had been renovated many times and had ultra modern appliances, up to date plumbing and wiring, etc..........The house was built in 1690! Most of the structure was original but I think it was mentioned that a closet in the kitchen was unmodified with the original 1690 door.

[@Bill23799]

I remember the first time I saw a " Broad Arrow " was while watching an episode of the Benny Hill Show. It was a sketch with prisoners and they all wore prison clothes with big broad arrows on them. Does that mean the prisoners were property of the Crown?

[@barbaraflagg5380]

Here in North Carolina, no doubt many, many tall pines were “marked” and used for British masts.

[@willslingwood]

You have that way of speaking that relaxes my nervous system. Even if I wasn’t into foraging and mudlarking (which I am!) I’d watch these videos!

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

Hello. Im so glad you find them relaxing. xx

[@relicholic7508]

I thought it might have been a deck scupper off an old boat but rudderpintle sounds better to this landlubber. The army catering corps badge is a brilliant find. My maternal grandfather was a cook in the English army in WWII so that strikes close to my heart. I remember many a Sunday dinner of roast beef and Yorkshire pudding by his hand. He lived between Putney and Richmond and he used to take us on walks over chiswick bridge.Thanks for bringing back memories forgotten by a young lad of 6-10yrs old back in the late 60’s

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

Thank you. what lovely memories too! x

[@relicholic7508]

@Nicky L I almost edited that in after I read it. My grandad was actually born in Galway his father was a Connaught Ranger during the Great War.Great grandad was actually half Irish half Scottish but he moved his family to London around 1920. I didn’t understand why at the time but grand was quick to differentiate between the Irish and the English in conversation but if his Scottish heritage came up he had no comment and the genealogy talk was over with at that point. I should note that he was a Campbell but that’s another history lesson. Thank you for correcting me. I think that Galway grandad resented the fact that “the Devil’s Own” wasn’t reactivated so he was just a displaced Irishman serving in an Englishman’s army perchance? What do I know I’m half yank quarter Irish and quarter English; just another world mongrel. Sorry TMI

[@moldering]

Could that be a trail piece from a cannon?

[@svenska81]

My dad was an American naval cook in WWII, and also made a roast with Yorkshire pudding for Sunday dinner. His maternal grandparents were from Yorkshire.

[@jambarreturns9060]

Nicola has such a keen eye for detail and spots the tiniest buttons and nails, plus she is absolutely gorgeous. Carry on Nicola, you are fantastic.

[@cyndybutler7330]

I’ve been following you for about 3 years but as Cynthia patterson , I love seeing what you find it’s the history and the wonder of where it’s been and who had it , it’s fascinating to me

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

Thank you Cyndy. Im so glad you're enjoying xx

[@lorrainewhitlock5377]

All are Great finds but the most striking of all was the little Barbie doll turned Nicola doll. I think she's beautiful just like you my dear Nicola😍🙋🏼🇺🇸💓

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

Thank you Lorraine! You are so kind xx

[@aliencat11]

Brilliant finds!! And I love mudlarking Barbie!!!!❤❤

[@martinjcamp]

Mudlark Barbie is a Collector Doll for certain! How about a Mudlark Ken.... err.... Simon?

[@aliencat11]

@@martinjcamp perfect!

[@kentuckylady2990]

I am having surgery tomorrow and several acquaintances have COVID, this video lifted my spirits.

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

Wishing you all the best for your surgery 😘

[@sticklebacksummer]

Good luck.

[@sinjaja5836]

Who wouldn't Love a beautiful old Nail? ... Or are we a little Strange? 😬 Loved the large Copper one. Thanks for this wonderful Episode!

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

Thank you! yes, isn't that large one amazing!!

[@thefightdoctor1257]

The Nicola Doll is outstanding, that is a real treasure.

[@paulapirpignani4802]

Always a pleasure! Thank you Nicola for the adventures! Love history xx

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

Thank you Paula! x

[@paulapirpignani4802]

@@nicolawhitemudlark I would totally be down in the muck w you poking around if I were closer! I love this and enjoy watching yoU and Si! Continued blessings🐠🐟

[@AbuPaul]

Lovely lady and an incredible channel. I thoroughly enjoyed watching this video. Thank you and Greetings from California :)

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

Thank you ❤️

[@ibqdiaz]

my favorite show! greetings from Mexicali, Mexico!!

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

Thanks Raul! Hello to you over there in Mexico!! xx

[@LondonCarnaval]

🙏🤗 I think this is the first time I'm happy with KZbin's algorithm for suggesting this enjoyable video. Subscribed and liked 👍. 😊 now I will need to catch up with the other videos. Brought me lot of memories from the 80's when I used to spend quite bit of my time along this wonderful river Thames ... Thank you for sharing this awesome video 👍👍👍👏👏✌❤🍀☘

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

Thank you ❤️ welcome

[@tracyriordan7011]

Nicola, you looked absolutely stunning. As did your little "Mini me" by Jennifer Kelly (fantastic job Jennifer! You got the black and white striped good luck tee, the pink boots, the little trowel, the hair was spot on, the little fanny pack, everything, including your recreation of the foreshore! I wax dying when it was shown!! You are awesome!! I loved this soooo much and Nicola adding it at the closing standing in the.mud on the foreshore was priceless)!!! ( : Plus your metal pieces fish was delightful and beautifully made as well as charming! Loved this whole video today! It was full of serendipitous surprises and interesting fun finds! ( : Have a great rest of your week! ( : 💖💖💖 Tracy ( :

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

Thank you so much Tracy. I am so glad you enjoyed it and thank you for the lovely compliments! Sending you love and you have a great week too xx

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

Thank you! ❤️

[@lawrencegt2229]

Lovely sentiment but can North American reviewers refrain from calling a bum bag/hip bag a f**** pack? It's a very rude word in the UK and not to be mentioned in polite discourse. Cheerio

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

@@lawrencegt2229 haha Lawrence 😃

[@aengusmacnaughton1375]

The doll is fantastic -- what a great gift and honor!

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

isnt it great!

[@aengusmacnaughton1375]

@@nicolawhitemudlark Awesome! Now I just need to find an overweight, grey-haired Ken doll for me!!!! :-)

[@aengusmacnaughton1375]

@@nicolawhitemudlark -- Oh I forgot -- the doll itself -- with the clothing and accessories -- is such a great tribute -- but the little diorama with teeny artifacts, and even a pipe with water draining into the Thames -- that is all fantastic! But you do deserve it!

[@Carolbearce]

The catering button is a very cool find. Loved to see what you find and the history around them.

[@Medieval_Digger]

Just subscribed! I’m a metal detectorist myself, but I love mudlarking! 😎👍🍀

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

Thank you! I've just subscribed to you!

[@Medieval_Digger]

Thanks! I’ve just started with my channel and I’m only doing one video a month at the moment now. 😄👍

[@cindyluwho602003]

I loved everything, but the Barbie tribute to you with diorama was truly epic!

[@suzannelewis9817]

Hi Nicola, love watching your videos, such enthusiasm for history and finds, well done xx

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

@@suzannelewis9817 Thank you Suzanne x

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

Thanks Cindy! so glad you enjoyed x

[@rogerdempsey7227]

Awesome information about your fines and history and your video lovely photos of the day fines you stay blessed and see you again on the next episode O so had a wonderful birthday sorry you didn't get to be there 🙏🥰❤

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

Thank you Roger xx

[@renjones4708]

The Apostle spoons make an appearance in the Starz series Outlander. You would love the books too. Watching from Missouri. My favorite Mudlarking adventures. I would love to buy one of your Art Fish, but find them only as Sold Out sadly.

[@constancemiller3753]

They always sell out:( I'm asking Santa Claus for a Christmas fish.🤞

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

Thank you. Yes I will have some on etsy eventually. It's taking me ages Im sorry! if you give me your email address i'll add it to the list and will let you know when there will be fish on etsy x

[@elizabethscruggs1622]

If anyone hasn't seen Outlander it's a must watch! However, I would suggest watching from Episode 1 of the series. It's amazing and starting from the beginning will let u understand the progression and some of the mysteries. Really, it's done VERY WELL and the costumes are great.

[@bethpeelar3435]

Best part is your bits & bobs fish made from all the little metal bits. Love it

[@Adam-Gates-Mudlark]

The mystery object could be something to support the end of a barge/boat. Beautiful finds Nicola, always love finding buttons!! Such personal finds.

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

Thanks Adam! you could be right there. yes, buttons are so special aren't they!

[@drunkdunc8738]

I think you're right about the end of a boat Adam, take a bow but expect some stern criticism 😬🍻

[@simonperry330]

One nail apeard to be stamped with the Ordanance Stamp up turned Arrow

[@thethe6232]

Your keen eye never fails to amaze me Nicola. Another great Video. Thanks you.

[@AtheistOrphan]

My ex-squadie brother tells me that the insignia on the ACC cap badge was colloquially known as ‘the flaming piss-pot’.

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

Oh my goodness! Love that :)

[@michaeldicker4839]

Being an ex-squaddie I can confirm that ACC were known as Andy Capps' Commandos

[@Mick028]

@b tuber That's the name I remember them by as well!

[@WildPony001]

@b tuber my sister was in the ACC based at CMH Aldershot. And by her cooking skills Aldershot Concrete Company is probably apt,lolol

[@barrysansom3801]

What an interesting lady. I am so pleased to find this gem and look forward to seeing more 👍👍👍👍👍

[@beckyjo8745]

That mermaid pipe is so beautiful!!! You had good finds today!

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

isn't it gorgeous. Germander is very good at spotting magical pipes

[@Rescheff]

People like you make my day!!!

[@ralphwood9865]

Back again ,we went to dinner at our daughters. I agree 1100%with Dave Richards below, this chunk of metal was part of the fittings to a reasonably large rudder ,probably wooden, the broad arrow marked "Nails" are probably rivets that woud have held the wooden blade of the rudder and have a hole at the top "gudgeon" which would fit over the the Rudder pintles which are the hanging pins on which the gudgeons fit and pivot(there would be several of these depending on the size of the rudder and some mechanism at the head of the rudder to attach a tiller or other steering mechanism,This could have been a rudder on a Thames Barge or a Lighter both of which were used extensively on the Thames.Your's with the broad arrow and your location near Greenwich would indicate some Royal Naval attachment. I never tire of through research you turn up fascinating stories from history along with an appreciation of the natural history of the Thames be it a graceful swan or a gull pecking at some tit bit .I can see that Catering Corps button being featured in your upcomong talk which alas I wont be able to attend.I couldnt close without commenting on your gorgeous jacket all sparkly like your eyes and your hair so sleak and very glamourous.I also have to comment on your lack of Pink wellies in this vlog but fel a little better in that the Cindy doll was suitably attired. Great vlog Nicola so good to see you back ion your beloved Thames foreshore XXX

[@AvonSearider54]

Agreed.

[@robertwood6238]

Great comment and details, Ralph!

[@sallystege7163]

Thank you for lovely video. Being an American, I sure enjoy your voice. What a great day.you had.

[@timtaylor1365]

Lovely finds Nicola. The iron ON OFF switch reminds me of a gold pendant I once saw at Garrard's jewellers - ON OFF switch for a woman's moods - ON was green emerald, OFF was a red ruby - rather appropriate I thought!

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

ha ha Tim. very funny indeed :) I suppose !!

[@thiosemicarbizidebenzoylal2921]

I wish I had enough money to give so you could dredge the Thames everyday, and report what you found. Love the history lessons.

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

Thank you! ❤️

[@owlfethurz8377]

What an enjoyable video! As you turned over a rock and found another antique coin I was chuckling...all I ever find that way are squigly bugs! I loved the fish you crafted from the pieces of metal you found, you inspire me to be more creative. The Tideline Art Nic (aka Barbie) is wonderful, so many details. Thanks again!

[@deborahbryant7530]

Lots of interesting finds Nicola !!! That was so sweet you helping that little tiny 🐠🐟 back to the water 💦 !!! Enjoyed your video very much !!! ❤️🙂

[@mymagiclieswithin]

Such a fun lark today! Always love seeing your finds. The Cap Badge and the Apostle spoon are just wonderful! Not only do I look forward to your round-ups with the clean up of the found treasures and the background on the items, but I love looking at your shelves behind you and seeing so many treasures sitting there that I was with you when they were found. Ah, such good times I have had on our many larks together, even though I am clear across the pond! Take care, stay safe. Keep all those you cherish close. ~Jen

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

Thank you and Im so glad you enjoy xx

[@YvonneO]

Too fun your barbie! You looked smart and stylish, and your video as always, entertaining and educational💝👍

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

Thank you!

[@sandcoils4232]

Awesome finds, love the history you found and saved!

[@Stellar12316]

Oh how I do love your videos never stop making them you are rescuing are history cheers from the colonies of Canada

[@ashbell6712]

Super interesting finds and the extra info you provide on them adds even more great context. Thanks for another great Sunday treat nicola. From ash Xx

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

Thanks Ash. Lots of love from me xx

[@kennysherrill6542]

That was a very thoughtful gift, the Barbie Doll was ingenious. I have a number of Honk Kong coins from 1978 when I was there last and the other coins where very interesting as well. 👍👍👍👍👍❤🇺🇸

[@cathafloat1195]

We were a service family and our married quarter furniture, kitchen equipment etc had a “broad arrow”. We would call it a “bench mark”, though I read that a bench mark is used for surveying; you see them etched on the corner of a building or bridge, for instance. Don’t tell the queen but I have a brown stoneware mixing bowl, which I use for my Christmas puddings, has a bench mark

[@philiphawley2915]

@@chrisgrill6302 A bench mark denotes UK gov. property

[@harrybond1485]

Those copper nails are really special because they were a favorite target of 19th century mudlarks, who as you know sold them to the marine shops for a pittance.That allowed these very poor persons to buy a bit of bread, or cheese as their only meal.

[@Lougallops]

My favorite video you’ve made so far. Loved the mermaid 🧜🏻‍♀️ appearing from the Thames and the fishy you saved was so precious. You had a great day. That cap badge and the glass seal were both cool food finds. I wonder what kind of cap it went on. A regular military cap or a special caterer’s cap? Was that a wine bottle? Or maybe water? Cool how that part was heavy enough that it survived perfectly intact, broken away from the bottle. Your talk will go brilliantly. I know this because that’s my 65th birthday 🎂 Stay well. Stay safe. Take care Nicola 🤍🕊

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

Thank you Linda! x

[@Lougallops]

@@nicolawhitemudlark 🍻

[@TheValueOfLaughing]

Happy Upcoming Birthday Linda! Mine is the same day also!

[@Lougallops]

@@TheValueOfLaughing happy Birthday 🎈 to us!! Aren’t we perfectly awesome Virgos?

[@TheValueOfLaughing]

@@Lougallops Absolutely!

[@thomaslennon3658]

How fortunate you are Nicola to have the River Thames so close by!

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

Yes I know!

[@thomaslennon3658]

@@nicolawhitemudlark A lifetime of never ending discovery, for sure! I love the Victorian England era, if I only had a time machine!

[@maritarver4588]

I noticed the gourds in the background and wondered what the story was . I'm a member of the Texas Gourd Society and I'm so curious! BTW, I love Mud Girl!

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

Hi Mari. Wow, the Texas Gourd Society! Well someone in the USA sent me that dried gourd that they had painted. I really love it! It actually could be a bird box for nesting - as there is a hole in it

[@watsondna]

Just ran across your channel. Fascinating! Thank you for sharing.

[@aengusmacnaughton1375]

Yay! Have not even started watching yet, but had to give you a shout-out!

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

Thanks Dana x

[@lynneseaward1315]

Another great video, Nic’. Love your jacket, very pretty.😀

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

Thank you Lynne x

[@blaynklsajfds]

That looks like a rudder pintle for a small boat

[@justdustino1371]

Could be tip of a yardarm, or part of the masts and rigging.

[@robchilders]

That's what I thought. Looks almost like the pintle from my sailboat rudder.

[@davidlathrop9360]

Wikipedia has the plans for a 31 foot longboat here: upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/8/85/Longboat_31_ft_1801.jpg And I agree, it may be the upper pintle for the rudder of something that size.

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

Thank you

[@juanitabefort8829]

Oh my goodness! Nicola barbie!!! That was awesome jennifer!! Lovit!

[@chriswhelan3412]

Lovely episode! Lots of interesting finds. Great idea to collect the modern coins to donate. It would be fun to have viewers guess how much you collect in a year. All the best, Chris from Florida

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

Thanks Chris. That's a great idea!

[@autumnrose76]

Whatever you collect maybe we can do a thing where we get people to match the amount for charity I’d love to help

[@patriciaschuster1371]

You are fantastic! Just found you, subscribed and now binge watching. When I was younger, I dreamed at night and wanted at day to do the same thing as you in our neighborhood Stoneycreek River in PA. Thank you for being so enjoyable and educational!

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

Hi Patricia! I'm so glad you found me :) and I'm glad you're enjoying the videos. Isn't searching for historical treasures fun?! X

[@divaden47]

My dear old Poppa was in the Army Catering Corps! Lovely to see one, sadly don't have his one just in a photo. Great finds!!

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

Thanks Dee! Was your Poppa a good cook?! x

[@verdagarner5112]

Great video Nicole , love your show.

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

Thank you Verda! ❤️

[@deathstarHQ]

Hi Nicola, I think the Mysterious find is a version of a Sistrum, some had extended rods for change in tone some didn't, the later Roman versions were more like this one.

[@lindagomez3114]

Wonderful finds Nicola! My favorite is the Heart shaped Fossil! Love your Glamorous Jacket! Very Chic!!

[@drunkdunc8738]

Ah, so if the broad arrow points down either my beer or myself is the wrong way up ? 🤔Cheers Nicola 🍻

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

ha ha yes I guess so

[@TeamLynchBMD]

Love the fossil and the hat badge. Terrific mudlarking👋

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

Thank you!

[@Mike-James]

What I like is you can go over the same place over several tides and find something interesting. In my teens I found a silver sixpence on a beach but it had the the name of a trading company on it.

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

oh fabulous find. I would love to find something like that!

[@wes11bravo]

Hello Nic - I've missed you! For whatever reason, your vids haven't shown up in my feed for some time now. So nice to see you!

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

Hi Wes! Oh that's a shame. Make sure you got the notification button. I think KZbin changed the settings 😘

[@robertlowery5586]

WOW! You always surprise us with something-really liked the opening today.

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

Thanks Robert!

[@rikspector]

Nicola, I hope you have a wonderful week, as well. A gudgeon, eh, sounds like some kind of fish, a grunion:) Lots of goodies! Cheers, Rik

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

Thank you Rik xx

[@matthewspencer5086]

Corvid 19 makes another appearance. It looks as if, he could be interviewed about his mudlarking experiences he would be quite proud of his collection of chicken bones.

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

ha ha yes he would Matthew. That did make me chuckle! xx

[@charlesperez9976]

Oh crudddd,now I’m all preoccupied with you being shrunk!!! So,another Haiku for you! Nicola,so small! You find such tiny treasures! That’s why I love you! Ok I think I got the syllables right!

[@evastanford2249]

Nicola, I enjoy what you do ,I see all those beautiful Little Rock’s and I have collected them all my life.Get me one and send to me,I would be so glad, I am almost 80 . I have never been to England and I do love your country. Love you and you what you do.God bless

[@MaryABaker-rd3mm]

I absolutely love your metal fish! What a wonderful way to use these small pieces of beautiful metal bits! The Barbie Nicola is delightful! I have a soft spot for Barbie's and she looks a LOT like you! I hope I will be able to hear your talk. Please stay safe! ❤

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

Thanks Mary! x

[@1_dirty_rotten_imbecile695]

Your comments on the fish reminded me. That was super Creative... It really jumped out at me too. So beautifully done... Have a super great day. Much 🙏🏻❤️👊🏻😎 Always Respect....

[@joyceclark8476]

Hi Nicola, what can I say that I loved about your video? Everything! ! ❤️ From the opening sand mermaid to the Nicola doll mud larking in the Thames. ❤️. You looked marvelous in that beautiful jacket you were wearing. Oh, I also loved the metal pieces you made into a fish. Great idea with all the metal pieces you find. Time will tell how much money you find and put in the charity box. Thank you, Joyce ❤️🇺🇸

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

Thank you Joyce! hugs, Nicola x

[@anitacarey2389]

Another fantastic video Nic! Much better than watching TV. Love all the Naval history, your Grandfather and Great-Grandfather would have loved it too, having a long Naval history in our family. Loved the Nicola Barbie too ... her measurements match yours perfectly!! Hope the outing inspired you even more for your Thames Festival talk on the 19th September ... wish we could be there.

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

Thanks mum! Xxx

[@luana1600]

Always loving your finds Nicola....but that jacket? It's to die for!!!!

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

Thank you Luana! x

[@johnwoodcock3208]

Well done as always princess Nicola!!👍

[@savagesquirrel9828]

The doll is a scream! What a good friend😆😆

[@tokenhillbilly3745]

U love them bc u know a person made them. It’s artistic skill. I appreciate all old stuff

[@Emma-si5bs]

What a fantastic mudlark you had. James loves trying to spot the finds before you zoom in on them 👀 He particularly liked the fluted pipe bowl, the bottle seal and military buttons 😊 (and your wonderful fish 🐟) Take care xx

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

Thank you Emma and James. We must do a little colab soon if you would like to! xx

[@Emma-si5bs]

@@nicolawhitemudlark Absolutely, James would love that. He still always says "I wonder if we'll see Nicola" when we go mudlarking 😍 xx