From a centuries-old discovery to a modern-day time capsule
The Historic Dockyard Chatham is currently restoring Commissioner’s House… one of the most historically significant buildings on site.
Built in 1704, it is widely regarded as one of the oldest surviving naval buildings in the UK. Once at the heart of the Dockyard’s operations, the House played a key role in Britain’s naval history.
Now, thanks to dedicated funding, it is being carefully restored and is set to reopen in Summer 2026… preserving its legacy for future generations.
During the restoration, an incredible discovery was made.
Hidden within the building was a historic playing card… a small but powerful glimpse into the lives of those who once lived and worked there.
The find captured national attention, featuring on BBC News and across national media, and sparked an idea.
What if that piece of history could tell its story today?
A Card with a Story of Its Own
The discovery that started it all was a Jack of Spades dating back to the 1700s.
Found beneath the original first floor of Commissioner’s House, the fragile card had spent more than 200 years hidden in darkness before being carefully recovered and passed to the Dockyard’s Collections Team for study. Expert analysis, supported by the Worshipful Company of Playing Card Makers, dated the piece to between 1725 and 1750.
Made from three layers of paper and printed using traditional woodblock techniques, the card carries the tell-tale characteristics of early print… including a slightly misaligned red layer, a common feature of the process at the time.
It’s a reminder that print has always played a role in how stories are shared… from handcrafted methods centuries ago to the precision and possibilities of modern production today.
From Discovery to Design
Inspired by the original card, the Dockyard launched a public competition, inviting people to create their own playing card designs in response to the find.
Two winning designs were selected… each offering a unique take on the Dockyard’s story, past and present.
That’s where BISON came in.
Working closely with the team, we took the winning concepts and helped shape them into fully realised playing cards. This included refining the layout and positioning of the designs, ensuring they worked as part of a cohesive and authentic deck.
We also designed the presentation boxes, placing the winning artwork front and centre to create something that felt both special and considered.
Bringing the Cards to Life
With the designs finalised, we produced two exclusive, limited-edition sets of playing cards.
Just 10 of each were created.
These weren’t intended for mass distribution… they were made to mark a moment.
Some will be placed inside a time capsule as part of the Commissioner’s House restoration, preserving this story for future generations. Others will be gifted as rare, commemorative pieces tied to the project.
Playing a Small Part in a Bigger Story
This project goes beyond print.
It’s about connecting past and present… taking a historical discovery and turning it into something tangible, interactive, and lasting.
To have played a role in bringing these designs to life, and to be part of something that will sit within a time capsule for years to come, is something we’re incredibly proud of.
Looking to create something meaningful?
Whether it’s a one-off piece or part of a bigger story, we can help bring your ideas to life in a way that lasts.
Call 01622 677 541 or email hello@madebybison.co.uk
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