Mudlarks Collection

"Mudlarks: Unearthing the Forgotten Stories of Thames Shore" Step back in time to the bustling shores of the River Thames

Thames Mudlarks
Barefoot mudlarks scavenging in the Thames at low water

Mudlarks Collection: Mudlarks on the Thames Shore, London

Mudlarks on the Thames Shore, London Date: 1904

Mudlarks Collection: On the Thames at low water (litho)

On the Thames at low water (litho)
476903 On the Thames at low water (litho) by English School, (19th century); Private Collection; The Stapleton Collection; English, out of copyright

Mudlarks Collection: Mudlarks (engraving)

Mudlarks (engraving)
3634687 Mudlarks (engraving) by English School, (19th century); Private Collection; (add.info.: Mudlarks. Illustration for Chatterbox, 1873. Digitally cleaned image.); © Look and Learn

Mudlarks Collection: Ballast-heavers 1850s

Ballast-heavers 1850s
Ballast-heavers or also named as mudlarks at work, labourers dredging the River Thames for the opportunity of finding something valuable amongst the mud

Mudlarks (engraving)
3625189 Mudlarks (engraving) by English School, (19th century); Private Collection; (add.info.: Mudlarks. Illustration for Chatterbox (1879). Digitally cleaned image.); © Look and Learn

Mudlarks Collection: On the Thames at low water (engraving)

On the Thames at low water (engraving)
3636555 On the Thames at low water (engraving) by English School, (19th century); Private Collection; (add.info.: On the Thames at low water)

Mudlarks Collection: Occupations 1883 - Mud Larks

Occupations 1883 - Mud Larks. 1883

Mudlarks Collection: Australian Magpie-lark (Grallina cyanoleuca) adult male, calling and displaying

Australian Magpie-lark (Grallina cyanoleuca) adult male, calling and displaying, perched on overhead wire, Queensland, Australia

Mudlarks Collection: The Thames at Mortlake

The Thames at Mortlake
The river bank at MORTLAKE at low tide - boys scavenging at the waters edge

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"Mudlarks: Unearthing the Forgotten Stories of Thames Shore" Step back in time to the bustling shores of the River Thames, where a unique group known as the mudlarks once thrived. These intrepid individuals scoured the muddy banks for hidden treasures and discarded relics, leaving no stone unturned. In captivating lithographs and engravings, we catch a glimpse of their daily lives. "Mudlarks on the Thames Shore, London" showcases their tireless efforts as they navigate through murky waters in search of forgotten artifacts. "On the Thames at low water (litho)" and "On the Thames at low water (engraving)" transport us to a bygone era when these brave souls braved treacherous tides to uncover hidden gems. The occupation of mud larking was not without its challenges. As depicted in an engraving titled "Ballast-heavers 1850s, " we witness their strength and resilience as they carry heavy loads along precarious paths. Yet despite these hardships, they remained undeterred in their quest for historical treasures. Illustrations from Phil Mays Gutter-Snipes provide further insight into this fascinating subculture that existed within Victorian society. Their resourcefulness and tenacity shine through even amidst adversity. Fast forward to 1959, where unexpected connections emerge between seemingly disparate worlds. The Great Pop Prom held at Royal Albert Hall brought together music enthusiasts from all walks of life – including those who had once roamed the muddy banks as mudlarks themselves. This unlikely convergence serves as a testament to how history intertwines with contemporary culture. Today, while much has changed along London's riverfront, echoes of these mudlarks' legacy can still be heard if you listen closely enough. They remind us that beneath our feet lies a rich tapestry waiting to be discovered – stories untold and secrets yet unearthed.