The significance of placemaking in bridging the gap between historical sites and contemporary communities. In an insightful article, Abi Hunt explores the concept of using a “Sense of Place” approach to help the public connect with the medieval heritage of Brayford Pool in Lincoln.
Historical significance and challenges in public engagement
Brayford Pool, situated at the junction of the Rivers Witham and Till, has been a pivotal location since the Roman period. The area was first canalised and connected to the River Trent via the Foss Dyke, a feat that transformed it into a crucial inland port. During the medieval period it became an industrious area. A Desk Based Assessment (DBA) of archaeological excavations have revealed evidence of settlement, including medieval pits, wall footings, domestic finds, and waterfront structures. The extension of the city’s defensive walls to encompass this area in the 13th century further highlights its importance.
Despite its rich history, the medieval heritage of Brayford Pool often remains obscure to the public. The modern landscape, now dominated by universities, hotels, and entertainment venues, obscures the historical activities that once defined the area. Abi’s article identifies this disconnect as a key challenge, suggesting that traditional linear historical narratives and representational interpretations of the landscape are insufficient to engage the public.
Collaborating to achieve enhance a sense of place
The “Sense of Place” approach proposed by Abi involves an interdisciplinary method that combines history, archaeology, landscape history, and geography. This holistic approach aims to understand how people relate to both the built and natural environment. By moving beyond static historical narratives, it seeks to create a dynamic and inclusive understanding of the area’s past and its relevance to the present.
Abi advocates for public curatorship and the practice of shared authority to re-establish the importance of the medieval period. This involves collaborative efforts between historians, archaeologists, and the local community to create new public interpretations of the area’s history. By engaging the public in the process of uncovering and interpreting historical sites, the sense of ownership and connection to the place is enhanced.
Placemaking as a tool for engagement
Placemaking, in this context, is understanding how the area’s physical development can create a sense of community and identity tied to a specific location. By integrating historical narratives into the contemporary landscape, placemaking can make historical sites more accessible and meaningful to the public. For instance, initiatives like the Brayford Architecture Trail, which includes information boards and artworks reflecting the past of the area, serve as tangible connections to the area’s medieval heritage.
Conclusion
Abi’s article underscores the importance of placemaking in connecting communities to their historical roots. By adopting a “Sense of Place” approach, we can transform historical sites into vibrant, living parts of our present by fostering a deeper sense of place and community, making historical heritage a living, breathing part of our urban landscapes. As we continue to develop and restore areas like Brayford Pool, it is crucial to incorporate these inclusive and interdisciplinary methods to ensure that our historical sites remain relevant and engaging for future generations.
Photo © Oliver Mills (cc-by-sa/2.0).
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