History, when you live somewhere it is always beneficial to know about the place’s history. Knowing what it was like before and how it has progressed over time. This is amazing, and when you learn about local history you will be impressed by how the area has progressed and will likely be more appreciative of what is available to you. But, learning history for some can be quite boring. When the only way seems like be researching online or reading books at the local library. But this is not the case. There are many ways you can learn about your town’s local history, and you don’t even need to touch a computer!
One of the easiest ways to learn about Northamptonshire’s past is by talking to people. Talk to people that are older than you, for example, the elderly. They were around long before you and I, so sitting down and having a chat with a cuppa is going to fill you with knowledge. Even though their stories may seem wacky sometimes, listening to them will help you to develop an understanding of what life used to be like for them. The history of our towns education, shopping, working etc. Not only is it going to provide you with historical knowledge, but it will provide the person you are chatting with with company and enjoyment. It could be someone in your family like grandparents or someone on the street. People are always happy to chat about their life stories.
If you want to delve deeper into the history of Northampton, many museums will help you with just that. For example Abington Park Museum, Sywell Aviation Museum, Northampton Museum and Art Gallery, and The Wellingborough Museum. All of these places and more will help to give you an insight into the history of Northampton and the many historical events that shaped Northampton into what it is today. Depending on your initial interests there may be a specific museum for you to visit that will help you to learn more down this route. For example, Sywell Aviation Museum is best for those who have an interest in planes, Aviation and War.
Finally, around Northamptonshire, there are many parks you can visit. From Brixworth Country Park and Abington Park to Becketts Park and Delapre Park. These places all hold knowledge of our town’s history. Abington park is the home of the Abington Park Museum. Delapre Park is the home of Delapre Abbey and you can pay extra to visit. A lot of local parks also have signs and information boards dotted around the location. These tend to have written information and pictures on them showing what the area used to look like and used to be used for. This is an excellent way for us to learn about areas whilst we are at them and enjoying the outdoors.
When it comes to learning about Northampton’s local history, the best ways to do it are through chatting with the elderly, visiting local museums and visiting parks. All of these methods are not just suitable for Northampton’s History, but the history of local towns all across the nation.