The remains of a ship were found in the former bed of the river Rother near Matham Wharf, west of the Isle of Oxney on the Kent side of the boundary with Sussex. The dimensions of the ship, when excavated, were found to be 63 feet. 8 inches long with a breadth of 15 feet. The vessel was clinker-built from oak, but not of British origin. When the vessel was eventually floated the remains of a small boat were found about 16 feet from the stern. This was about 15 feet long and 5 feet broad, flat-floored and very shallow. It fell to pieces on attempted removal. Various articles were found in the after cabin of the larger vessel, including earthenware pots, glazed tiles set up as a hearth and some human and other bones. Human remains were also dug up in the sand near the vessel. It is certain that it became derelict prior to 1623 because at that date a complete stop was made to the navigation of the Appledore Channel.