New Discoveries are being made about the history of Lincolnshire’s towns, thanks to a project bringing together a range of archaeological information for the first time.
The Extensive Urban Survey aims to provide an understanding of how and why communities have developed as they have.
It will compile detailed studies on 30 towns over the next three years, with the first - Holbeach - already revealing fascinating historical facts.
They include the presence of a market or preaching cross from the 13th century and a medieval bridge thought to still be beneath the “five-way” crossroads.
The bridge once crossed the Holbeach river - known as “the Stinker!” - but was covered over in the mid-19th century. Project officer Nicola Grayson said: “We could have chosen so many towns in Lincolnshire, but we’re focusing on 30. We started in Holbeach, moved on to Market Deeping and now we are investigating Boston.
“The aim is to produce a report for each town and a geographical information system (GIS) map showing the character of the settlements from the earliest records to the present day.”
After Holbeach, the survey moved on to Market Deeping in the far south of Lincolnshire, with intriguing results.
“Market Deeping has already revealed evidence of Bronze Age settlements, salt production, agriculture and burial grounds,” said Nicola.
“There was an excavation in the town in the 1990s and lots of artefacts were unearthed which will form part of our own recordings.
“The information gathered from thousands of years of development will support future planning considerations, as well as helping others interested in local heritage.”
The Extensive Urban Survey - which is now focusing on Boston - is a national project funded by Historic England, but residents can also contribute to the research.
“We don’t see this as a project we’re doing alone - we want county residents to have an input, too,” added Nicola. “People will be able to contribute by emailing or uploading images, old maps or even interesting historical facts about their town.
“All this information will help piece together an accurate historical picture of where we all live. “One thing we’re already seeing is that change has always happened - it’s nothing new. But it’s important to ensure our history is properly recorded for future generations.”
To contribute material or information about your town, go to www.lincsabout.town or email incseus@lincolnshire.gov.uk
Towns included (by district)
- Boston; Boston
- East Lindsey; Alford, Horncastle, Louth, Mablethorpe, Skegness, Spilsby, Sutton on Sea, Wainfleet, Woodhall Spa, Wragby
- North Kesteven; Hykeham, Sleaford
- West Lindsey; Caistor, Gainsborough, Market Rasen
- South Holland; Crowland, Holbeach, Spalding
- South Kesteven; Bourne, Grantham, Market Deeping, Stamford
The project also covers: Brigg, Kirton in Lindsey, Scunthorpe, Barton upon Humber, Crowle and Epworth in North Lincolnshire and Cleethorpes and Grimsby in North East Lincolnshire.