The Tablet's Tale - Derek Melluish Memorial Lecture
6th March 2023Church of St. Lawrence Jewry
Masters were invited by the City of London Guide Lecturers Association to the 20th Annual Derek Melluish Lecture – at the Church of St Lawrence Jewry. It was good to be back there following its restoration– looking most beautiful.
Dr Roger Tomlin FSA, Emeritus Fellow of Wolfson College, Oxford, gave the lecture focusing on the translation of ancient wooden documents (tablets) found in the Bloomberg Excavations 2010-2013 and dating back to 50 to 80 AD!
The evening commenced with an introduction from Louise Grainger, Chair of the Association and in the presence of the Lady Mayoress, Masters and guests.
It was most interesting to learn of the communication skills that existed back then, and how letters were inscribed on wooden tablets surfaced with ‘black’ wax. Letters mentioned stolen animals, loans, wills and investments!
The evening ended with a reception in the Church and some discussion on yet another education!