When I asked the Editor if he had anything good for me to read, he handed me this book. Its subtitle, The Most Successful Treasure Diver of the 18th Century, immediately piqued my interest.
John Lethbridge (1676-1759) recovered sunken treasure to the value of almost £100,000 over his diving career of 44 years. Doesn't sound much, but try multiplying this amount by 130 to give you an idea in today's monetary terms!
This short monograph is very descriptive.
It begins with the development of Lethbridge's "diving engine" before moving on to the wrecks he dived on several continents, with varying degrees of success.
His more notable triumphs were the wrecks of the Vansittart and Slot Ter Hoge, but the book gives accounts of all the wrecks on which he was contracted to work by the Dutch East India Company (VOC), Royal Navy and other owners.
There are detailed appendices and a great array of notes for cross-referencing as you read, which makes this a very interactive book, and it is beautifully illustrated with maps and diagrams throughout. A must-read for anyone who enjoys the lure of treasure and those interested in the history of diving.
Alex Khachadourian
Historical Diving Society
ISBN: 9780954383442
Hardback, 102pp, £24
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