This bronze plate is about two thousand years old. A Roman soldier in
Britain would have fixed it onto his belt. It was decorative, but also
served to protect and reinforce the leather. Near each corner is a small
rivet. These would have attached to the leather belt. The belt plate is
similar to examples found elsewhere in Britain and on the continent.
Roman Hammersmith
The main evidence for the Romans in Hammersmith is the modern Goldhawk
Road. This road lies on the line of the Roman road that ran west to
Chichester. There are also signs of occupation along the banks of the
river.
Army in evidence
The Romans invaded Britain in ad 43. London was founded by ad 47. The
military played an important role in the early settlement. Armour fittings
and parts of weapons have been found on many early Roman sites in London
dating from the 1st to early 2nd century ad. A Roman officer's sword was
even found in the Thames at Fulham.
