In the first and second centuries AD hundreds of Roman soldiers were based at the fort of Vindolanda near Hadrian’s Wall. Some brought their families with them. They sent and received a constant stream of letters on wooden tablets, several hundred of which survive today and provide a window into life at the fort. In this workshop led by experts in palaeography and ancient documents, participants will explore these letters (both their contents and their form) and create Vindolanda-style tablets of their own.
About the workshop
Three hour workshop
Learn about ancient Vindolanda and its tablets
Learn how to make and use a Roman pen and ink
Make your own Vindolanda tablet
No prior knowledge necessary
Set in the unique surroundings of Butser Ancient Farm’s historic buildings
Dr Marigold Norbye read Classics at Cambridge, and later did a PhD in Medieval Studies at University College London. Reading medieval manuscripts for her doctorate enabled her to indulge in her love of palaeography, the art – or science – of deciphering old handwriting. Marigold has taught palaeography for the past two decades both at UCL and at the London International Palaeography School, and she enjoys sharing with others her excitement about how people used to read and write in the age before print and computers.
Professor Eleanor Dickey did her D.Phil. at Oxford and now teaches at the University of Reading. She has published numerous books about the ancient world and its surviving documents and has taught at Columbia University in New York, the University of Ottawa in Canada, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität in Munich, Sorbonne University in Paris, Leiden University, and the University of Exeter.
This workshop is offered in partnership with the Reading Ancient Schoolroom, an educational charity started at the University of Reading in 2014 with the aim of bringing Roman schools to life and sharing them with today’s children. The ancient schoolroom will be in residence at Butser’s Roman villa from 26-31 August 2025, offering a range of workshops and drop-in activities.
Included in your ticket
Entrance to the farm, a day’s tuition and expertise, and the use of all materials.
workshop info
Pen-making requires use of a sharp knife.
Please wear sensible clothing and footwear for this workshop. Lunch is not included, although sandwiches (subject to availability), hot and cold drinks, and snacks are sold in our gift shop. You’re also welcome to bring a picnic if you prefer!
Reasonably good eyesight and hearing are necessary to use ancient learning methods.
This workshop is intended for adults, but suitable for ages 14+. Participants under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Accompanying adults must also buy a workshop ticket themselves.
If you have any mobility concerns, special requirements, or other questions, please contact workshops@butserancientfarm.co.uk for help!