Stuff of History by Steven Moore

‘Moore is wickedly charming – the naughty uncle you want to be sat beside at the dinner table’ – Daily Telegraph

Too often history focuses on the tales of kings, or those (often men) who were given the credit for shaping our stories. Yet, what fascinates most are the figures who have passed through the cracks of history, people like:

– The fourteen-year-old boy who lived undetected in the chimneys of Buckingham Palace
– Archie Lee, the re-inventor of Santa Claus
– The women at Playtex who helped put the first man on the moon
– Unknown war hero Tommy Brown, whose extraordinary bravery helped the code breakers of Bletchley

But it’s not just forgotten heroes that you’ll meet, this compendium also reveals the curious back stories behind everyday objects – the humble fork, the china cup, the real history of tea, and Queen Victoria’s underwear – to name but a few.

The Stuff of History is a thoughtful, entertaining and carefully curated miscellany of fascinating forgotten histories from Antiques Roadshow stalwart, and popular historian with a huge Instagram following, Steven Moore.

A beguiling, entertaining and consummately curated miscellany of fascinating forgotten histories from Antiques Roadshow presenter, and popular historian, Steven Moore

About the Author: Steven Moore has worked as an antiques dealer, auctioneer and museum curator. He is a published author, journalist, and also a highly experienced TV presenter best known for his appearances on the BBC, particularly BBC One’s top-rated factual Antiques Roadshow, where he has been a regular expert since 2003. More recently he has joined BBC One’s Antiques Roadtrip.

09 Oct 2025
 

The Stuff of History: A Curated Compendium of Curious Objects and Forgotten People by Steven Moore ISBN 9781785126505