Nautical Uses of Lead in Roman Times

A Presentation byIvor Mollema

Chronology

• Use of lead very common in Ancient World

• Nautical use mainly from 3rd c. BC till 2nd c. AD for Romans

• But, several examples found later:– Femina Morta wreck

300 AD

Uses

• Sheathing• Caulking• Anchors• Pumps• Oars• Cooking Gear• Fishing Gear• Containers

Sheathing• From Keel to Waterline

– Copper Tacks– Second Strake above Water– Overlapping

• Guards against marine growth and shipworm– Found on 2/3s of Roman ships

• Used for patch repairs• Spares were carried in rolls in

the hull• Usually 1 metre square• 1.25 mm average thickness

Caulking

• Deck and Hull• Strips of lead between

planks• Sealed with putty or

resin• Waterproofing of joints

Anchors

• Lead key component of Roman Anchors

• Composite anchors of wood and lead

• Lead used to give weight to anchors

• Usually stock or assembly piece

Pumps

• Used as form of bilge pumps

• Basic piston pump• Hand operated• Lead parts:– Pipes– Collecting Box

Other Uses

Important Sites (besides ours)

• Caesarea, Israel• Baratti Wreck, Italy• Nemi, Italy• Marsala• Grado, Italy