Pewter plate found under Welney Bridge

Discussion in 'Metalware' started by Born2it, Aug 17, 2025.

  1. Born2it

    Born2it Well-Known Member

    IMG_6514.jpeg IMG_6515.jpeg
    Someone very interesting (she does beach cleanups, makes art with what she finds, and also does embroidery for Norwich Castle) that I follow posted these pictures. I tried looking for information on the plate, got nowhere, and (with her permission and thanks) decided to see if someone here could provide any info and/or clues.

    All I know so far is that it’s 31cm, pewter, and was acquired “some time ago” in the UK, most likely near Norfolk. Regarding the place it was found, Google says:
    “Welney Bridge, over the River Great Ouse, has a history tied to the drainage and flood management of the Fens in Norfolk, England. Originally a suspension bridge built in 1826 by Capt. Sir Samuel Brown, it was replaced in 1926 by a concrete structure carrying the A1101 road.

    The bridge is located near the Ouse Washes, a large washland area designed to manage floodwaters from the River Great Ouse.”

    Any leads appreciated!
     
  2. wlwhittier

    wlwhittier Well-Known Member

    I know nothing...but there are 13 of those stars, suggesting American commemoration of some sort, or simply place of origin.
     
  3. Marote

    Marote Well-Known Member

  4. say_it_slowly

    say_it_slowly The worst prison is a closed heart

    You don't mention if there are makers marks. Pewter often has them though they can be very difficult to see.

    I have quite a few reference books on pewter marks if you can locate any.

    Out of curiosity, what exactly are the light areas (stars, arrows etc) made of?
     
    Figtree3, Born2it, wlwhittier and 2 others like this.
  5. Born2it

    Born2it Well-Known Member

    Unfortunately, I don’t know. I’m going to ask the woman who owns it to take a few more pictures, hopefully including both a closeup of a star and one with the tape off the back so the whole back is visible. Thank you for your help!
     
    Figtree3, Marote, wlwhittier and 2 others like this.
  6. the blacksmith

    the blacksmith Well-Known Member

    I am inclined to think that it is something to do with witchcraft..Pentagrams, thirteen of them, the crossed arrows are I believe an occult symbol. Maybe the initials of some ritual, or a coven member. perhaps it was buried as part of a curse?
    That would be my guess.
     
    Figtree3 and wlwhittier like this.
  7. evelyb30

    evelyb30 Well-Known Member

    Are the initials AMT or ATM? The latter would be fitting - bust out another thousand via Automatic Teller Machine to pay for the metal detecting or mudlarking hobby. It costs a b.o.a.t's worth.
     
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