Stanwick Lakes, a cherished heritage site in Wellingborough, has been awarded a substantial grant of £250,000 from the National Lottery Heritage Fund. This funding will fuel an exciting and ambitious new initiative designed to delve deep into the location's rich Roman history over the next two years.
From Iron to Empire: A Journey Through Time
The project, aptly named 'From Iron to Empire,' aims to bring the significant Roman heritage of the Nene Valley to life through a series of creative and interactive experiences. It represents a major investment in uncovering and celebrating the hidden historical narratives of this archaeologically important landscape.
Hands-On Heritage for All Ages
Local residents and schools are warmly invited to participate in a variety of hands-on activities that promise to forge a tangible connection with the past. A central feature of the project will be the construction of a fully functional replica of a Roman pottery kiln. This endeavour will vividly demonstrate ancient production techniques and craftsmanship.
Furthermore, a new experimental heritage garden will be cultivated, planted with crops and herbs that were commonly grown during the Roman era. This living exhibit will offer a sensory link to historical agricultural practices.
Community Collaboration and Expert Guidance
Community involvement is at the heart of this initiative. Enthusiasts will have the unique opportunity to work alongside experts, including members of the Northants Guild of Spinners, Weavers and Dyers, to reconstruct authentic Roman textiles. This collaborative effort highlights the project's commitment to skill-sharing and preserving traditional crafts.
An additional highlight will be the creation of a new villa viewpoint. This vantage point will overlook the remains of an important local Roman villa, designed to help visitors visualise and appreciate the massive scale of ancient life that once thrived at Stanwick Lakes.
A Site of National Significance
Stanwick Lakes is already recognised as a nationally significant archaeological landscape, featuring a Bronze Age barrow and an Iron Age settlement. Large-scale excavations conducted in the 1980s confirmed that this location has hosted continuous human settlement for more than 5,000 years, making it a treasure trove of historical insight.
Voices of Enthusiasm and Community Spirit
Nadia Norman, the heritage coordinator at Stanwick Lakes, expressed her profound excitement about the support from the National Lottery Heritage Fund. She emphasised that the project will showcase this hidden history through creative and memorable community experiences, making the past accessible and engaging for everyone.
The success of the entire programme will rely heavily on the dedication of local volunteers and specialist heritage partners. Residents are encouraged to follow the project's journey through to 2026 as the Roman past of the Nene Valley is vividly brought back to life, offering a unique window into ancient Britain.
