December 2018 Newsletter

DEREK GORE
We had a very good attendance for our autumn talk at the Village Hall. Mr. Gore’s theme was the Roman settlement of Devon and since he is an expert on all the recent research on the Roman invasion and the information from the latest archaeological finds it proved to be a very interesting evening. It was clear that the Romans moved on into Devon beyond Exeter because they were after valuable minerals. The Romans knew about these minerals because of existing trade between the Celtic tribes and mainland Europe so they were heading for coasts and river estuaries like the Dart and the Erme. They used ancient trackways crossing the Exe and the Teign and built wooden structures and forts. Even Exeter was all wood at this time, save for the bathhouse.
The route they followed took them by Ipplepen at the site of the recent excavations. According to Mr. Gore the settlement at Ipplepen seems to be unique in that it has the appearance of a village whereas at this time most of the Roman finds suggest impermanent forts and farmsteads. Of course there is the evidence of the Roman road at Ipplepen and the discovery of high status Simian pottery and amphora that can be dated. It seems the Roman soldiers could be ruthless but their very existence altered the local economy and agriculture and lead to increased trade with the rest of the Roman Empire.
ARTHUR FRENCH MEMORIAL PRIZE
In October we visited the primary school and awarded the prizes for the best examples of historical research. Every year the school celebrates Ipplepen’s history in memory of former governor and expert local historian Arthur French.
This year’s theme centred round the centenary of the end of the First World War and the winners for the different year groups were:- Amelie Norris, Amy Baker, Oliver Gore, Keenan Clark, Sam Harris, Finn Andrew and Luke Walker. The overall prize was shared by Amelie Norris and Amy Baker.
Our thanks go to Amanda Lacey and her team for all their work in making this project a success.
ARMISTICE DISPLAY
The centenary display will remain in St. Andrew’s until the middle of December. We have had some very nice feedback about this display and we know that it has inspired some of you to learn more about your ancestors who served in the great conflicts of the twentieth century. There are good sources of information if you look up Devon Heritage or the Commonwealth War Graves Commission or the Imperial War Museum.
A HAPPY CHRISTMAS FROM US ALL AT THE LOCAL HISTORY GROUP!