Caring for Our Roman Past, Conservation Day at the Museum
Behind every artefact on display lies a great deal of care and conservation work. On 10th April 2026, we were delighted to welcome conservators Wendy Richardson and Connie Tang from English Heritage for one of their regular visits to the museum. Working alongside Friends of Letocetum (FoL) conservation volunteer, Al Howard, the visit focused on ensuring that our Roman collections continue to be preserved to the highest standards.
English Heritage conservators visit several times throughout the year to monitor the condition of artefacts and displays. Their work includes checking environmental conditions within display cases, reviewing humidity readings, and replacing silica gel where necessary to help protect sensitive objects. Updates provided by Al and Karen help the conservators assess any changes and identify areas requiring attention.
Among the day’s tasks, Al and Wendy worked together to remove bark chippings from around the bases of some of our larger stone artefacts, including quern stones and column bases. This helps improve both the appearance of the displays and the long-term care of the objects. Connie also carried out conservation repairs to two artefacts. To avoid any dust contamination, this delicate work took place in a separate area away from the main displays.
This particular visit also included a thorough “spring clean” of the museum’s displays and collections. While routine cleaning, and monitoring are carried out regularly by our volunteer team, these visits provide an opportunity for more detailed conservation work and closer inspection of the artefacts.
Wendy and Connie were keen to express their appreciation for the dedication shown by our FoL volunteers. Their commitment is evident throughout the museum, which is consistently praised for being well cared for and maintained. Visitors often comment on the quality of the displays and the welcoming appearance of the museum in our comments book.
Images:
- Al carefully removing dust from a section of wall plaster.
- Connie cleaning stains from a stone display shelf.
- Roman urn showing areas prepared for conservation repair with plasters. Can you recognise original pieces of pottery and then ‘fill in’? (difference in colour and smoothness)
- Al holding Samian Ware bowl – can you see repairs/authentic pieces, part to be repaired today
We also captured two short videos of Connie explaining the conservation process and demonstrating the meticulous work involved in preserving archaeological artefacts for future generations. One with the urn and the other with a Samian Ware bowl.
The conservation of Roman artefacts is an ongoing process, and we are extremely grateful to both the English Heritage conservators and our dedicated volunteers whose expertise and commitment help safeguard this important collection. Their work ensures that visitors today and in the future, can continue to enjoy and learn from the remarkable remains of our Roman past.