Hobnails as battle indicators

[M. Demetrius]

Is there a directory or a compendium or something of date-based nailing patterns? I'd like to have a look at that, if possible.

[D B Campbell]

Is there a directory or a compendium or something of date-based nailing patterns? I'd like to have a look at that, if possible.

A fascinating subject for a research project. (Maybe Carol van Driel-Murray has something on this?)

I know that Tim Padley analysed nailing patterns in the context of the Carlisle finds, in T.G. Padley et al. (eds.), The wooden, leather and bone objects from Castle Street, Carlisle (Cumberland & Westmorland Archaeological Society Report # 5, 1991) [non vidi] That would be a good starting point.

[Martin Moser]

Is there a directory or a compendium or something of date-based nailing patterns?

Not to the degree I personally would like to have it, AFAIK. It actually is something I have been thinking about for a year or so - maybe it's time to get going ... :-P P

Maybe Carol van Driel-Murray has something on this?

That is a pretty good guess, Duncan :-) ) She did write something to that end (not quite sure where that was, will have to look it up), but IMHO it could do with some more detail, actual example patterns, relations to shoe types, find spots, etc.

[M. Demetrius]

If I understand what you're talking about, Martin, a book like that would have a market. People will buy it if you can put it together. Millions? No, probably not. But thousands, yes, I'd think so...not just reenactors, but historians and those who want to date finds by patterns, that would be a big help. Hey, I'd buy one, just to be the first one on my block to have it, assuming I don't have to sell the farm to get one.

Might need a footnote or two, though... :wink: :!:

[jkaler48]

Suggested title:
THE NAIL THAT CONQUERED THE WORLD!
The complete book of Roman Hobnails

[M. Demetrius]

Good one, John.