Large pieces of ironstone, potentially part of the historic Northampton Castle, have been uncovered by archaeologists in Northampton, England. The discovery was made by experts from the Museum of London Archaeology (MOLA) during a preliminary investigation ahead of transforming the car park into a new heritage park.
Situated at the entrance of the town from Northampton’s railway station, the Marefair Heritage Park regeneration scheme aims to provide the local community with much-needed green space. This area of the town is rich in heritage and history, being the original site of Northampton Castle. The park will feature new pathways, lighting, a playground, a community garden, heritage timeline poles, and various flora to enhance biodiversity.
Over a one-week period starting July 17, MOLA archaeologists conducted a dig where the heritage timeline poles will be installed. This led to the discovery of large ironstone pieces, likely sourced locally from Northamptonshire, potentially linked to the castle’s demolition in 1879. The castle’s remains were first excavated in the 1960s, during which ironstone was identified as a primary construction material.
The recently uncovered ironstone, mixed with brick and modern pottery, was found adjacent to the trenches from the 1960s excavations. This suggests that it is rubble removed during the earlier archaeological work over fifty years ago. Additionally, the team found remnants of a post-medieval wall from a house built while the castle ruins still stood, offering insights into the town’s development post-Civil War.
Simon Markus, a Project Manager at MOLA, shared his excitement about the findings: “As someone born and raised in Northampton, having the chance to excavate around such an important part of the town’s history is incredible. Seeing how the area developed over the centuries gives a greater understanding of the town’s past and the people who lived here.”
Northampton Castle, constructed in 1084 by Simon de Senlis, played a significant role in English history. It was a royal residence and a vital military stronghold during the Middle Ages. The castle hosted several significant events, including the trial of Thomas Becket in 1164. Despite its importance, the castle fell into disrepair and was largely demolished in the 19th century to make way for railway expansion.
Councillor Dan Lister, Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure at West Northamptonshire Council, expressed the council’s enthusiasm for the project: “The Council has long held ambitions to redevelop this area of the town to create a Heritage Park, an attractive, vibrant and modern destination at an important gateway position in the town centre. As an exciting step of this regeneration scheme, it is great to be working with experts at MOLA to uncover the fascinating history in this part of our town. We look forward to continuing work with them to keep a watching brief on the project over the coming months as we bring forward this scheme.”
The ongoing archaeological work is expected to shed more light on Northampton’s rich history and contribute to the town’s cultural heritage as the Marefair Heritage Park takes shape.
Top Image: Photo courtesy West Northamptonshire Council
Large pieces of ironstone, potentially part of the historic Northampton Castle, have been uncovered by archaeologists in Northampton, England. The discovery was made by experts from the Museum of London Archaeology (MOLA) during a preliminary investigation ahead of transforming the car park into a new heritage park.
Situated at the entrance of the town from Northampton’s railway station, the Marefair Heritage Park regeneration scheme aims to provide the local community with much-needed green space. This area of the town is rich in heritage and history, being the original site of Northampton Castle. The park will feature new pathways, lighting, a playground, a community garden, heritage timeline poles, and various flora to enhance biodiversity.
Over a one-week period starting July 17, MOLA archaeologists conducted a dig where the heritage timeline poles will be installed. This led to the discovery of large ironstone pieces, likely sourced locally from Northamptonshire, potentially linked to the castle’s demolition in 1879. The castle’s remains were first excavated in the 1960s, during which ironstone was identified as a primary construction material.
The recently uncovered ironstone, mixed with brick and modern pottery, was found adjacent to the trenches from the 1960s excavations. This suggests that it is rubble removed during the earlier archaeological work over fifty years ago. Additionally, the team found remnants of a post-medieval wall from a house built while the castle ruins still stood, offering insights into the town’s development post-Civil War.
Simon Markus, a Project Manager at MOLA, shared his excitement about the findings: “As someone born and raised in Northampton, having the chance to excavate around such an important part of the town’s history is incredible. Seeing how the area developed over the centuries gives a greater understanding of the town’s past and the people who lived here.”
Northampton Castle, constructed in 1084 by Simon de Senlis, played a significant role in English history. It was a royal residence and a vital military stronghold during the Middle Ages. The castle hosted several significant events, including the trial of Thomas Becket in 1164. Despite its importance, the castle fell into disrepair and was largely demolished in the 19th century to make way for railway expansion.
Councillor Dan Lister, Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure at West Northamptonshire Council, expressed the council’s enthusiasm for the project: “The Council has long held ambitions to redevelop this area of the town to create a Heritage Park, an attractive, vibrant and modern destination at an important gateway position in the town centre. As an exciting step of this regeneration scheme, it is great to be working with experts at MOLA to uncover the fascinating history in this part of our town. We look forward to continuing work with them to keep a watching brief on the project over the coming months as we bring forward this scheme.”
The ongoing archaeological work is expected to shed more light on Northampton’s rich history and contribute to the town’s cultural heritage as the Marefair Heritage Park takes shape.
Top Image: Photo courtesy West Northamptonshire Council
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