Thimble Unearths Timeless Love

March 2024
Smithsonian Magazine

Thimble Unearths Timeless Love

Introduction

Imagine stumbling upon a 300-year-old silver thimble with a message of eternal love, hidden under the soil of Carew Castle, Wales. That's exactly what metal detectorist Robert Edwards experienced! Featured in Smithsonian Magazine, this enchanting find not only whispers romantic secrets from the 17th century but also raises intriguing questions about its original owner. Dive into this tale of accidental treasure and historical romance. Who knew a day under an oak could lead to such a discovery?

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Why It Matters

Discover how this topic shapes your world and future

Unearthing History's Hidden Messages

Imagine stumbling upon a small, seemingly ordinary object that whispers secrets from 300 years ago. This is exactly what happened to a metal detectorist who found a silver thimble engraved with a romantic message from the past. This discovery isn't just a cool artifact; it's a gateway into understanding personal and cultural practices of the past. The thimble's inscription, "LYKE STIL AND LOVE EVER," offers a fascinating glimpse into the intimate aspects of historical relationships and how love was expressed materially. This find underscores the importance of everyday objects in piecing together historical narratives, revealing personal stories that big historical events often overshadow. For you, this could spark curiosity about what seemingly mundane items today say about our current culture and how future historians might interpret them.

Speak like a Scholar

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Artifact

An object made or used by humans historically, which is studied by archaeologists to learn about the past.

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Inscription

Writing engraved on a hard surface. In the case of the thimble, it contains a message of love.

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Posy

A short poem or inscription, often used in the past on gifts like rings or thimbles to convey affection or devotion.

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Archaeology

The study of human history and prehistory through the excavation of sites and the analysis of artifacts and other physical remains.

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Provenance

The history of ownership of a valued object or work of art. Understanding provenance can help confirm the object's authenticity and history.

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Treasure Act of 1996

A UK law that helps museums acquire important finds and ensures finders and landowners are rewarded, while also providing a clear process for reporting finds.

Independent Research Ideas

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The Language of Love in Historical Artifacts

Investigate how expressions of love have evolved over time by comparing inscriptions on different artifacts like rings, lockets, and thimbles from various historical periods.

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Material Culture and Everyday Life in the 17th Century

Explore what everyday objects from the 17th century can tell us about the daily lives, social customs, and personal values of people at that time.

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The Role of Personal Adornments in Historical Narratives

Study how personal items like thimbles, jewelry, and clothing accessories contribute to our understanding of historical identities and social statuses.

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Conservation Techniques for Metallic Artifacts

Research the science behind preserving metal artifacts like thimbles. What methods ensure these items can survive for future generations to study and enjoy?

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The Impact of Laws on Archaeological Discoveries

Analyze how laws like the Treasure Act influence the reporting, conservation, and distribution of found artifacts. How do these laws affect what we learn about history?