The Portable Antiquities Scheme is a fascinating archaeological program that records objects found by metal detectorists and members of the public across England and Wales, creating a database of historical discoveries. This new entry in the popular "50s" series uses this treasure trove to illuminate Britain's LGBTQ+ history in wonderfully unexpected ways.
Author Ben Paites, a curator at Colchester Museums, brings his expertise in the histories of marginalised people to this project. What makes this book absolutely captivating is how Paites has drawn on a seriously strange and diverse group of objects to demonstrate something vital: the LGBTQ+ community is made up of a range of different ways of being authentic and we've been present throughout recorded history.
The book brilliantly navigates the challenge that many of the terms we use to categorise this diversity simply didn't exist in the past. From bisexual monarchs to gender non-conforming priests, we're reminded that history tells us LGBTQ+ people have always existed – we just need to know how to look for them. Using objects recorded with the Portable Antiquities Scheme, Paites shares stories of LGBTQ+ history and culture, focusing on historical figures, the natural world, language, symbolism, and communities.
The range is delightfully eclectic: from a carving of a whale to a silver pilgrim badge of St Sebastian, from male giraffes entwining their necks to an depiction of mythical god Woden. Each object becomes a portal into our shared past, highlighting the rich depth of history available on the PAS database. Did you know that 18% of male sheep are bisexual or that pirates created their own form of marriage to allow same-sex partnerships? These are exactly the kinds of fascinating revelations that make "50 LGBTQ+ Finds" a fun read, providing a brief tangential glimpse into the deep and diverse nature that is sexuality and gender. There's something deeply moving about how these physical objects have made their random way through time to be picked up by a member of the public, to speak to us directly from across the centuries.
This is a great little book, with one object per page that makes it perfect for dipping in and out of. Paites provides thoughtful, fun and occasionally frothy detail about the history of the objects and subjects mentioned, making each entry feel substantial despite the accessible format, there's an occasional stretch but it's forgivable. I learned fun facts alongside more serious historical insights, but most importantly, I felt that little bit more affirmed in a truth we all need to hear: we've always been here. The book is particularly important in providing readers with concrete evidence to combat the bigotry that many LGBTQ+ people face. In a world that sometimes tries to erase our history, "50 LGBTQ+ Finds" offers tangible proof that queer joy, love, and identity have been part of the human & the natural worlds' stories for millennia.
A delightful read that manages to be both scholarly and accessible, proving once again that the most powerful stories often come from the most unexpected places.
Out now, see publisher for more info, or to order.
