Peterborough Museum & Art Gallery’s internationally significant Prehistoric Archaeology Collections have been awarded Designated status by Arts Council England - recognising their outstanding national importance.
The award celebrates the exceptional archaeological heritage of Peterborough and the surrounding area, and its contribution to our understanding of Britain’s prehistoric past. Drawn from the internationally significant landscapes of the Lower Nene and Lower Welland valleys, the collections tell the stories of thousands of years of human experience – from the earliest prehistoric periods through to the Iron Age. They reveal how communities adapted, innovated and flourished in a constantly changing environment.
The collections include remarkable evidence of some of the region’s earliest inhabitants, rare Bronze Age log boats and ceremonial monuments, alongside many other objects that provide insights into prehistoric settlement, technology and everyday life.
Generations of archaeologists, researchers, museum professionals, volunteers and local communities have helped establish Peterborough as one of the UK’s leading centres for prehistoric archaeology. The collections continue to support new research and discoveries, challenging established ideas and providing fresh insights into prehistoric life.
Darren Henley, Chief Executive of Arts Council England, said:
“What was life like in the East of England 900,000 years ago? Weaving hundreds of thousands of years of local history into one unique collection, the Prehistory Collection reveals the answer by showcasing remarkably preserved objects that represent the continuous human occupation of Peterborough since the Palaeolithic age. I would like to congratulate all involved in this prestigious Designation Award.”
Sarah Wilson, Heritage Manager at Peterborough Museum & Art Gallery, said:
“Achieving Designated status for Peterborough Museum and Art Gallery’s Prehistoric Archaeology Collection is a landmark moment for both the museum, Flag Fen and the city. This prestigious national recognition confirms the outstanding significance of a collection that contributes to understanding Britain’s prehistoric past.
“For Peterborough, this award is a source of immense civic pride and strengthens our ability to share this remarkable heritage with residents, schools, researchers and visitors.”
Held in trust by Peterborough Museum & Art Gallery for the people of Peterborough, the collections are a source of immense local pride and international archaeological significance.
The Designation recognises not only the extraordinary objects and archaeological evidence preserved within the collections, but also the long-term commitment to their care, research and interpretation.
Through the completion of the Peterborough Archaeological Archive Enhancement Project (PAAEP), funded by Historic England and The Headley Trust, and the ongoing My Must Farm project supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, significant investment has been made to safeguard, interpret and share this internationally important heritage.
As research continues to understand Britain’s prehistoric past, Designated status provides national recognition of the importance of Peterborough’s collections and the need to ensure they are protected, accessible and inspiring for generations to come.