The working life of Museum of London

Each month we offer an insight into a fascinating object from our vast collection via our website and social networking sites.

This month, we look at a mystery worthy of Houdini…

Iron ball and chain 17th – 18th century

This iron ball and chain is likely to have been used to shackle prisoners during transport in the 17th – 18th century. 

It was found by Mudlarkers (members of the public who are licensed to search the Thames foreshore) who thought they had found a cannon ball until the chain came slithering out of the Thames mud. 

It is made from iron and the padlock has a brass plate around the key hole.  The padlock is skilfully made with the screw-thread carved after the padlock was cast.  English padlocks of this time were not made in this way which suggests that this was made on the Continent.  The long spike on the padlock would have pointed towards the other leg when it was fitted around the ankle.

When it was found, the padlock was locked but no key has been found – could someone have slipped out of custody?

Kate Sumnall, Finds Liaison Officer at Museum of London Docklands said: “The river is the repository for so many of London’s stories, and this extraordinary find gives us a tantalising glimpse of the human trials and tribulations of past Londoners.  Whether a would-be Houdini freed himself from the “great iron on his leg”, or perished in shackles, or whether this ball and chain was simply discarded, we can never know.  Visitors to Museum of London Docklands will have to decide for themselves.”

The ball and chain is currently on display in the foyer at Museum of London Docklands for a limited time.