This project was one of the main elements included in Kirkham’s Historic England, HAZ Final Cultural Programme 2023- 2024.
Funded by: Historic England, National Heritage Lottery Fund, Lancashire County Council Cultural Fund, Fylde Borough Council and Kirkham Town Council.
The programme focused on the previous existence of Kirkham’s Roman Fort and built on previous archaeological work, offering the community an opportunity to participate in archaeological digs on the area once thought to be a Roman Fort.
Activities included the enhancement of an existing local archive, a Kirkham focused Roman themed exhibition including interactive activities for both schools and the wider community, a heritage focussed social prescribing programme, and a schools education programme. This was supported by the delivery high street heritage inspired activity trails and the creation of health and wellbeing and cultural volunteering opportunities.
The Community Archaeology project provided many great engagement opportunities ranging from digging test pits to learning how to research and catalogue finds. The project captured the community’s imagination, with many eager to explore their towns Roman past and enjoy a sense of discovery.
“I have a keen interest in archaeology, and it was fascinating to see and experience a dig for the first time.”
The Kirkham community were involved in the excavation of many test pits in private gardens throughout the designated area. Participants welcomed the opportunity to learn more about the history of their town and their own homes. Families and volunteers were supported by archaeologists from NW Heritage, who received great feedback from participants
All the finds were documented and catalogued and the community archaeology programme was documented and illustrated in the exhibition, Kirkham’s Romans Story.
Town centre heritage trails also animated the high street and raised awareness of the town’s rich heritage.
Raising awareness of heritage
Creating a better sense of place
Animating the high street
Connecting the community
Delivering wellbeing opportunities
Escape Into Kirkham’s Past
A heritage inspired social prescribing programme
9EC9E2The test pit dig, facilitated by NW Heritage, proved to be the highlight for many of the participants. As it provided a fascinating insight into local Heritage, and gave participants the opportunity to learn new skills, such as cataloguing and documenting the finds.
“This was the highlight of the course for me despite the rain”
Catherine, age 65
“I also enjoy the historical dig, I dreamt of being an archaeologist as a child”
Laura, age 76.
Immersed in local heritage and inspired by the past, participants began their own creative journeys. Inspired by their archaeological finds, they research them and told their stories and created fantastic artworks. The course facilitated by heritage specialists, along with artists Andy Shaw and Sharon Kelly, introduced participants to new skills, techniques and creative methods. At the end of the course each participant had produced a body of work that they were delighted with.
“The course had a very positive effect on my well-being, in that it awakened a creative talent that I never knew I was capable of. Resulting, in heightened self-esteem, more energy and enthusiasm. It also broadened my circle of acquaintances and facilitated new friendships.”
C, age 65
“The art was very good for the mind and soul, a very positive experience. It helped me push myself to improve my confidence and health”
L, age 74
“This course has given me exposure to creative activities that I wouldn’t normally have done. I have gained a more in-depth understanding of local history and made new connections and friendships within my community.”
K, aged 47
“I enjoyed embracing our ideas and gaining Knowledge, from the facilitators, it gave us confidence and support in a friendly happy environment, which was fun as well.”
K, age 62
“It increased my confidence; I felt accepted even though I had mobility issues.”
A, age 81
“I suffer from anxiety and when I’ve felt anxious, I have been able to divert my thoughts to the journal and activities. It increased my confidence and helped with my anxiety.”
C, age 76
Many of the participants acquired newfound confidence and a zest for living, with a desire to embrace new things. The strangers who began the course bonded over the session, sharing their enthusiasm for local heritage and excitement over the discoveries made.
The individuals became a group, with common bonds and shared interests, who supported each other, celebrated achievements and laughed together.
“This has been a very positive experience; I feel a bit more outgoing and more confident to attend another course.”
Laura aged 74
“I feel more able to join community activities and join Kirkham Companions.”
Alison, aged 81
“I feel more confident and would like to do more community archaeology.”
Karen, age 76
Schools Education Programme
Positive Pacemakers CIC delivered a programme of exciting and innovative education sessions, with Kirkham and Wesham schools. A fantastic time was had by all the participants, who provided great feedback after enjoying some amazing archaeological sessions.
The Romans are Back in Kirkham education programme was a key element of the community archaeology programme. Devised by an archaeology/history specialist in collaboration with an art educator/practitioner, in discussion with each participating school prior to the visit. Each session was adapted to meet the specific needs of the setting, with an awareness of curriculum topics and required outcomes that support Key Stage 2 learning, while approaching local heritage imaginatively when considering the impact of the Roman settlement in Kirkham, through class-based presentation and discussion, archaeological excavations on school sites, and historically informed creative workshops. Each session required pre-session site inspection to produce a risk assessment that was then forwarded to school prior to visit. The test pits were dug/prepared in advance of the archaeology sessions to maximise the children’s and young people’s time engaged in the activities.
Turtle Class enjoyed a fabulous day full of learning on their Archaeology Day. Joined by experts from Positive Placemakers and NW Heritage, they learned all about Kirkham’s Roman past, dug for artefacts…
and of course got very muddy! What a great way to take learning outside the classroom!
Medlar with Wesham Church of England Primary School
Very well organised sessions, super resources, which were clearly explained. Links made to the history of Kirkham and a real archaeologist added to the wow factor for the children, overall excellent
Mrs Eccles, Teacher, Kirkham and Wesham Primary School
Good mix of classroom and outdoor activities. Ruth and Mike very informative and knowledgeable about Kirkham and Roman era. Ruth and Mike were fantastic. Pre-visit we were kept fully updated. Very thorough site visit, made aware of health and safety regs but also made session very enjoyable for the children.
Roz Guerra, Teacher, Medlar with Wesham Primary School
The visit was adapted brilliantly/appropriately to ensure all our students could access each workshop and, with support, complete and engage in the activities. Thank you to Mike and Ruth, it was a fantastic lesson.
Mr. Norris, Assistant Head Teacher, Pear Tree School