An exhibition exploring the history of Northampton Castle is to open in town this week.
Northampton Castle was one of the most significant Norman Castles in England. It was witness to the trial of Thomas Beckett and played a significant role in the events leading up to the creation of the Magna Carta. As the first major castle a day’s ride from London, it was strategically important.
The Hazelrigg family owned the castle until 1861, which by then had fallen into ruin. They sold the site to Samuel Walker and moved to Hazelrigg House, which was built in 1662, which miraculously escaped the Great Fire of 1675 that wiped out most of the historic buildings in the town centre.
The castle site passed to L&NW Railway Company in 1876 and was levelled to make way for a station which was built and opened in 1879.
‘Echoes of Northampton Castle’, which has been developed by Northampton Borough Council museum service with help from the Friends of Northampton Castle, explores the rich history of Northampton Castle through 1,000 years and how its presence is still felt today.
Councillor David Mackintosh, leader of Northampton Borough Council, said: “This year has been a year of commemoration and celebration for Northampton. As well as being 100 years since the start of WWI, it is 825 years since the town was granted its charter by Richard I and 850 years since the trial of Thomas Becket at Northampton Castle. We have held some great events this year and this exhibition about the castle is one of them.”
Dr Marie Dickie OBE, speaking for the Friends of Northampton Castle group, said: “We are delighted that the museum service is now using a remarkable building so close to the site of the castle to give people a chance to know about how important Northampton was in English history. We hope that this marks a renaissance of heritage celebration in Northampton.”
‘Echoes of Northampton Castle’ is at Hazelrigg House, 33 Marefair, opens on Friday and runs until February 28. Exhibition opening times are Friday and Saturday 10am to 4pm and Sunday 12pm to 4pm. Entry is free.