SS Bunker in Wolchow front- finds

[vonrall]

The clay blocks the oxygen from getting to the items and preserves the metal and leather. However, if the leather is allowed to dry out it will shrivel and shrink up very quickly once exposed to the air. In the 70s we did a lot of digging in lower Mnahattan and found many complete 18th Century shoes and other items well preserved in the clay.

[Digger]

Good old anerobic conditions

[dave1134]

but worth all the effort to walk away with the helmets wow

[Striker]

Those helmets look great! Awesome condition. Can you take some pictures of them once they are all cleaned up?

[spaltring]

in case you find leather you have to soak it into oil for several weeks so it goes compleetly into the leather they stay than flexible and don't become brakable
cheers
phil

[Dimas]

Never use any of oils, if you want to keep the leather in the good condition
For the years the leather lost it's condition, and became back as it was fresh- all what you need to repeat the process, make it wet, add acid and a bit vaseline, all other liquids kills the leather

[robin morley]

Superb finds, the helmets are in remarkable condition. But I have to say that is one BIG hole to have dug by hand.

[Scout]

Very very interesting pics - thanks for posting, Dimas!
Man, thats a lot of digging!
Those helmets look great.
Did I mention, that I find this thread interesting!!

[Woolgar]

Fascinating! I am glad this thread was bumped

Nick