Discovery of a 400-Year-Old Sword in Dorset River Leaves Fisher ‘Gobsmacked

Magnet Fisher’s Remarkable Discovery

Stephen Hill, a 29-year-old magnet fisherman, made an extraordinary find in Dorset’s River Stour—a 3-foot-long sword believed to be around 400 years old.

The discovery was made while Hill was scouring the river for artifacts, and he suspects the sword may have historical connections to the 17th-century Civil War era, possibly belonging to a cavalryman due to its size and design.

Unveiling a Historical Artifact

Hill, an enthusiast passionate about history, uncovered the intact sword while magnet fishing at Sturminster Newton.

Initially, he mistook the find for common items like rebar or scaffolding, but as he pulled it closer, the distinct features of the sword became evident, leaving him astonished by its significance.

Insights into the Age and Use of the Sword

Upon initial observations by amateur historians, the sword appeared to feature a single cutting edge with remnants of what might have been a rusted-away basket hilt, indicating its potential use by cavalry during the Civil War.

Hill refrained from cleaning the delicate artifact to preserve it, awaiting further examination by the Finds Liaison Officer, anticipating potential insights into its age, possible battles linked, or any historical connections.

Enthusiasm for Historical Finds

Hill, who shares his discoveries on a YouTube channel, has a track record of uncovering historical artifacts during his five-year-long magnet fishing pursuit.

His previous discoveries include World War One grenades and an anti-tank shell, which required the bomb squad’s intervention earlier in the year.

While Hill typically retrieves bottles and debris from the river, the discovery of the sword stands out as a thrilling and once-in-a-lifetime find.

Prospects for Museum Display

Eager to share the historical significance of his discovery, Hill aims for the sword’s inclusion in the Dorset Museum post in-depth analysis by experts.

His anticipation rests on the hope that the relic will find a place among historical exhibits, contributing to the region’s rich heritage.