Victory Uncovered at Vindolanda

Victory's Vigil: How Amateur Enthusiasm Unearthed Roman Grandeur at Hadrian's Wall

A remarkable Roman-era sculpture, portraying the winged embodiment of triumph, has emerged from the earth near Hadrian's Wall. Volunteers, diligently assisting professional archaeologists during a formally sanctioned dig, made this striking discovery. The stone carving came to light through the efforts of two people from Merseyside, Dilys and Jim Quinlan, at Vindolanda. This area is renowned for its substantial Roman military installation remains and is situated near the town of Hexham, within Northumberland. This find offers yet another tangible link to the rich tapestry of Roman Britain and the individuals who inhabited this remote frontier.

The unearthing of such artefacts underscores the profound connection linking bygone eras with current times. Each discovery peels back layers of time, offering glimpses into the lives, beliefs, and artistic expressions of those who walked these lands nearly two millennia ago. For the dedicated volunteers and the professional archaeological teams, these moments represent the pinnacle of their efforts, transforming centuries of accumulated rubble into a direct conduit to history. The find also highlights the enduring public fascination with archaeology, a field that continually rewrites our understanding of bygone eras.

Vindolanda: A Fortified Outpost

Vindolanda, whose name may translate to "white fields" or "white moor," functioned as a crucial Roman auxiliary fort. It stood guard over the Stanegate road, a vital east-west artery, even before the construction of Hadrian's Wall. Over a span of nearly three centuries, from approximately AD 85 to AD 370, at least nine iterations of the fort, built from both timber and stone, occupied this very ground. This complex layering of occupation has rendered Vindolanda one of Britain's most intricate and revealing archaeological sites.

The fort’s strategic placement, slightly south of Hadrian’s Wall, meant it played an integral role in the broader defensive network of the northern frontier. It served not only as a military stronghold but also as a hub for construction and garrisoning related to the Wall itself. The constant rebuilding and adaptation of Vindolanda across different periods offer archaeologists a unique timeline of Roman military presence and architectural evolution in Britain. Each phase of its existence left a distinct imprint on the landscape, contributing to the rich archaeological record that continues to be explored today.

Dedicated Volunteers: The Quinlans' Story

Dilys Quinlan, aged 69 and employed in healthcare, and Jim, her sixty-eight-year-old spouse, who holds a position as an engineer for the municipal authority governing Liverpool, are the dedicated volunteers credited with this significant find. Their commitment to the Vindolanda excavations is remarkable. This current season represents their twenty-first year of contributing their time and energy to the archaeological efforts at that particular excavation area. They regularly make the journey from their residence, situated close to Liverpool, to Northumberland, driven by a shared passion for history and archaeology.

The Quinlans discovered the carved stone artefact depicting Victory amidst rubble they were meticulously clearing. This area was situated above the remains of the accommodations for foot soldiers within the Vindolanda fort complex. Their long-standing dedication has, for them, transformed volunteering into a cherished pursuit. Dilys Quinlan described their extensive time spent at Vindolanda as an exceptionally marvellous activity they have undertaken, emphasizing its importance as a shared experience. She further characterized it as an unparalleled method for unwinding, citing good food, restful sleep, congenial company, and the continuous opportunity for learning as its profound benefits.

A Moment of Revelation: Uncovering Victory

The discovery of the Victory relief by the Quinlans sent a ripple of excitement through the Vindolanda excavation team. The Vindolanda Trust's director of excavations, Dr Andrew Birley, expressed the profound joy such finds bring, particularly when unearthed by volunteers. He highlighted the immense effort and commitment these individuals invest in the site. Dr Birley eloquently captured the thrill of archaeological discovery, describing the tangible thrill that occurs when, after sifting through countless pieces of Roman debris, a deity's countenance suddenly appears, staring back from antiquity.

This direct connection with the past, as Dr Birley articulated, feels almost like touching history itself, causing the intervening centuries to melt away. He affirmed that these are the moments archaeologists and volunteers strive for, the ultimate reward for their meticulous efforts. The find serves as a potent reminder of the rich historical narratives lying dormant beneath the soil, awaiting careful hands and keen eyes to bring them into the light. The uncovering of the Victory relief is not just an addition to a collection; it is an emotional and intellectual encounter with a bygone civilisation.

Image Credit - Independent

The Public's Passion for the Past

The allure of archaeology extends far beyond academic circles, capturing the imagination of the wider public. Dr Andrew Birley attested to an unquenchable fascination for participating in digs undertaken at Vindolanda. He revealed that when applications for volunteer positions open, they are typically filled within a minute, a demand he humorously likened to a smaller-scale parallel to the Glastonbury festival's demand. This overwhelming response, with an estimated four to five thousand hopefuls vying for only five hundred available places, underscores the deep public desire to connect with history in a tangible way.

Dr Birley emphasized the transformative experience for those who participate. Volunteers become active participants in the archaeological process. When they uncover finds such as the Victory relief, they are, in effect, writing themselves into the annals of British archaeology. This hands-on involvement fosters a unique sense of ownership and connection to the heritage being unearthed. The immense popularity of such programs speaks volumes about the human need to understand our origins and the stories of those who came before us, making archaeology a truly communal endeavour.

Victory: A Symbol of Roman Might

Professor Rob Collins, a specialist in Frontier Archaeology at Newcastle University, has identified the carved figure as Victory. This deity is a significant entity within Roman spiritual beliefs and mythology. Known as Victoria in Latin, she embodied triumph and was Rome's counterpart to the Greek divine figure Nike. Victoria held a place of high reverence, particularly throughout periods of conflict, where Romans often credited her with success on the battlefield. Her image frequently adorned coins, monuments, and military standards, serving as a constant reminder of Rome's power and divine favour.

The worship of Victory was deeply embedded in Roman military culture. Soldiers and commanders would offer sacrifices and dedications to her, seeking her blessing before campaigns and giving thanks after successful engagements. The presence of her image in a military setting like Vindolanda is therefore highly significant. It reflects the importance of religious belief and symbolism in maintaining morale and a sense of divine protection among the troops stationed on the empire's distant frontiers. The discovery of such a potent symbol offers insight into the spiritual lives of Roman soldiers.

Context of Conflict: The Severan Wars

The soldiers' living quarters where the Victory relief was discovered date to a significant period in Roman Britain, around AD 213. This timing places their construction shortly after the conclusion of the tumultuous Severan Wars. These conflicts, occurring in the late 2nd and early 3rd centuries AD, involved extensive campaigning in northern Britain under Emperor Septimius Severus and his sons, Caracalla and Geta. The wars aimed to subdue the Caledonian tribes and consolidate Roman control over the northern frontier.

The impact of these campaigns was considerable, involving the construction of numerous marching camps and the reinforcement of existing forts like South Shields, which served as a major supply base. Although territorial gains from these wars may have been short-lived, the military activity left a discernible mark on the archaeological landscape. The historian Cassius Dio recorded that Severus instructed his army to show no mercy to the rebels. The subsequent construction of substantial military accommodations at the Vindolanda fort, adorned with symbols like Victory, likely reflected a desire to assert Roman dominance and commemorate the re-establishment of order after a period of intense conflict.

A Grand Embellishment for a Frontier Fort

The newly discovered carving of Victory measures 47cm in height. Experts believe it originally formed one side of a much larger relief. This larger structure likely framed a central inscription. Such monumental art suggests that Roman forts were not merely utilitarian structures designed purely for defence. They possessed elements of grandeur and served as displays of Roman cultural and imperial power, even in remote frontier locations.

The infantry accommodations at Vindolanda, constructed following the conclusion of the Severan conflicts, were themselves previously embellished with a substantial, decorative archway and entrance structure. It is precisely in such a prominent location that a significant inscription, framed by reliefs like the Victory carving, would have been placed. The symbolism of Victory, particularly following a period of intense warfare, would have been deeply resonant. It would have signified the successful conclusion of hostilities and the strength of the Roman military presence.

Artistry and Symbolism in Roman Military Life

This exquisitely sculpted image serves as a vivid reminder that Roman military installations possessed qualities beyond mere utility, not just structures designed purely for defence. They featured a notable degree of magnificence; quite naturally, the inherent symbolism embedded within them constituted a vital component of the societal fabric here for the soldiers almost two millennia previously.

The charitable organization, Vindolanda Trust, has played a pivotal role in the exploration and understanding of this remarkable site. Founded in 1970, the Trust has consistently welcomed volunteers to participate in its excavation programs, fostering a unique collaboration between professional archaeologists and the public. Over the decades, thousands of individuals have benefited from the challenging and rewarding experience of digging at Vindolanda. The Trust’s initial assets in 1970 were modest, including the 13-acre 'camp field', basic tools, and a small sum in the bank. The first excavations under the Trust, directed by Robin Birley, began at the 3rd-century military bathhouse.

A significant milestone in Vindolanda's history was the 1973 unearthing of the inscribed wooden documents known as the Vindolanda tablets by a team led by Robin Birley, father of the current Director of Excavations, Dr Andrew Birley. These thin wooden leaf-tablets, inscribed with ink, offered unprecedented first-hand accounts originating from individuals dwelling and laboring at Vindolanda around AD 85-120. This discovery revolutionized the understanding of daily life, literacy, and administration on the Roman frontier. The Trust continues to build on this legacy, with ongoing excavations and research projects, ensuring that Vindolanda’s secrets continue to be revealed.

More Than a Hobby: A Connection to Something Greater

For volunteers like Dilys Quinlan, their involvement at Vindolanda transcends a simple pastime. While expressing a keen interest in historical subjects, with an emphasis on the eras of Greece and Rome, Dilys affirmed contentment with her employment in roles serving the community. Archaeology, for her and her husband Jim, serves as an immensely rewarding hobby. This sentiment is common among the many helpers committing their time to uncovering the past.

The experience fosters a profound sense of community and shared purpose. Dilys spoke of feeling very much a component of the Vindolanda "family." She highlighted the significance of contributing modestly to broadening the understanding of existence along the Roman borderlands. Perhaps most importantly, she articulated the deep satisfaction derived from involvement in an endeavor of more profound significance than one's individual self. This captures the essence of volunteer archaeology: a collaborative effort that connects individuals not only with the past but also with a community of like-minded enthusiasts and professionals, all working towards a common goal of historical understanding.

Image Credit - Independent

The Enduring Significance of Vindolanda's Finds

The discovery of the Victory relief adds another layer to the rich archaeological tapestry of Vindolanda. This location has yielded a remarkable array of artefacts throughout numerous excavation periods, each contributing to a more nuanced understanding of Roman Britain. Beyond the famed writing tablets, excavations have uncovered thousands of remarkably preserved items, including Roman boots and shoes, armour, jewellery, coins, and even a rare wooden toilet seat. The anaerobic (oxygen-free) conditions of the soil at Vindolanda have been crucial in preserving organic materials like leather and wood, which rarely survive elsewhere.

Recent finds continue to highlight Vindolanda's importance. In 2020, archaeologists discovered a 5th-century chalice adorned with religious iconography, suggesting early Christian presence. Excavations in 2022 produced over 800 new objects, including a notable stone carving with a phallic symbol and an inscription. Further discoveries in 2024 and 2025 included more phallic imagery, believed to be protective symbols. These finds, from military equipment to personal items and religious objects, paint a vivid picture of a dynamic community on the edge of the Roman Empire.

Hadrian's Wall: The Roman Frontier

Vindolanda lies in the shadow of Hadrian's Wall, Britain's greatest Roman monument and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Emperor Hadrian ordered its construction following his visit to Britain in AD 122. The Wall, stretching 73 miles (80 Roman miles) from Wallsend on the River Tyne to Bowness-on-Solway, marked the north-west frontier of the Roman Empire for nearly three centuries. It was a complex defensive system, comprising the stone wall itself, ditches, forts, milecastles (small, guarded gates every Roman mile), and observation turrets.

The Wall was not merely a barrier; it was a controlled military zone. Forts like Housesteads (Vercovicium) and Chesters (Cilurnum) housed garrisons of auxiliary soldiers, many recruited from across the Empire. These forts were connected by a military road and supported by civilian settlements (vici) that grew up around them, catering to the needs of the soldiers and their families. The Wall represented a significant feat of Roman engineering and a powerful statement of imperial authority, separating the Roman province of Britannia from the unconquered "barbarian" territories to the north.

Life in Roman Auxiliary Forts

Life in an auxiliary fort like Vindolanda was a microcosm of the Roman world, albeit adapted to a frontier environment. Soldiers stationed there, often non-citizens recruited from conquered provinces, lived a structured military life. Daily routines involved training, guard duties, and patrols along the Wall or surrounding territory. The Vindolanda tablets offer glimpses into these duties, with reports on troop strength and assignments. However, life was not solely about military matters.

The tablets also reveal personal correspondence, shopping lists, and even an invitation to a birthday party, indicating the presence of families and a semblance of normal social life. The discovery of items like jewellery, gaming pieces, and writing implements attests to leisure activities and a degree of literacy. The fort itself contained barracks, workshops, granaries, a headquarters building (principia), and often a bathhouse, which was a crucial social and recreational centre. The presence of a civilian settlement outside the fort walls further underscores the vibrant community that existed on the frontier.

The Symbolism of Victory in a Military Context

The depiction of Victory in Roman military art and architecture was laden with meaning. As the personification of triumph, her image served as a constant affirmation of Roman martial prowess and the divinely ordained success of the Empire. For soldiers stationed far from Rome, on the often-turbulent frontiers, such symbols played a vital role in maintaining morale, reinforcing their identity as part of a conquering power, and providing a sense of divine protection. The goddess Victoria was frequently associated with the emperor and the imperial cult, linking military success directly to the emperor's leadership and favour with the gods.

The placement of a Victory relief at a prominent location within Vindolanda, such as an ornamental arch or gate associated with the barracks, would have been a powerful statement. It would have reminded the soldiers of their purpose, celebrated past victories, and perhaps invoked future successes, particularly after challenging periods like the Severan Wars. These artistic expressions demonstrate that Roman forts were not just starkly functional military bases but also spaces where imperial ideology and religious beliefs were actively displayed and reinforced.

The Role of the Birley Family in Vindolanda's Story

The Birley family has an enduring and multi-generational connection to the archaeology of Vindolanda. Professor Eric Birley, a distinguished archaeologist from Durham University, began excavations at the site in the 1930s and later purchased the land. His son, Dr Robin Birley, continued this legacy, leading the excavations that famously uncovered the Vindolanda writing tablets in 1973. This discovery was a watershed moment, significantly enhancing Vindolanda's international archaeological importance.

The current Director of Excavations and CEO of the Vindolanda Trust, Dr Andrew Birley, represents the third generation of the family dedicated to uncovering the site's secrets. Having started excavating as a teenager, he has worked full-time at Vindolanda since 1996, taking over as Director of Excavations in 2005 and CEO in 2015. His academic work, including a PhD focusing on extramural settlement at Vindolanda, further contributes to the deep understanding of the site. This familial dedication has been instrumental in making Vindolanda a leading centre for Roman frontier research and a beloved heritage attraction.

Hexham: A Nearby Historic Town

While Vindolanda boasts a direct Roman military history, the nearby market town of Hexham has a different, though interconnected, past. Located approximately five miles south of Hadrian's Wall, Hexham itself does not appear to have Roman origins as a settlement in the same way as Corbridge (Coria), which was a Roman supply town. However, its proximity to the Wall and Roman sites meant it benefited from their legacy.

The most significant connection lies in Hexham Abbey. Founded in AD 674 by St Wilfrid, the abbey's crypt was built almost entirely from recycled Roman stones. These stones were transported from the ruins of Corbridge Roman Town and likely other Roman structures along the Wall. Visitors to the crypt can still see inscribed Roman stones and decorative carvings, tangible evidence of this Roman architectural inheritance. Hexham, therefore, while a medieval town in its own right, carries within its foundations the echoes of the Roman presence in the region.

The Severan Dynasty and Britain

The Severan dynasty, founded by Emperor Septimius Severus (reigned AD 193-211), had a significant impact on Roman Britain. Severus himself, along with his sons Caracalla and Geta, spent considerable time in Britain from AD 208 until his death in York (Eboracum) in AD 211. Their primary objective was to campaign against the Caledonian tribes in what is now Scotland and to strengthen the northern frontier. These campaigns were arduous and involved large numbers of troops.

Archaeological evidence, such as marching camps and rebuilt fortifications, attests to the scale of Severan military activity. One of Severus's lasting administrative changes was the division of Britain into two provinces: Britannia Superior (south) and Britannia Inferior (north), with York as the capital of the latter. This move likely aimed to prevent any single governor from commanding too large an army, thus reducing the risk of rebellion. The period following the Severan campaigns saw significant rebuilding at forts like Vindolanda, reflecting a new phase of consolidation on the frontier.

The Vindolanda Writing Tablets: Voices from the Past

The Vindolanda writing tablets stand as one of the most important archaeological discoveries from Roman Britain. These thin, postcard-sized wooden leaf-tablets, inscribed with carbon ink, date primarily from AD 90-120, predating much of Hadrian's Wall. Discovered in 1973, they provide an unparalleled insight into the daily lives of the garrison, their families, and even their slaves. The content is remarkably diverse, ranging from official military reports, requests for leave, and supply inventories to personal letters, shopping lists, and even a famous birthday invitation from Claudia Severa to Sulpicia Lepidina.

These documents, written in Latin cursive script, reveal details about social interactions, economic activities, literacy levels, and the personal concerns of individuals living on the Empire's edge. They show a community that included women and children and maintained connections with other parts of the Empire. The tablets are treasured not just for their historical information but also for their human connection, allowing us to hear the voices of ordinary people from almost two millennia ago. Many are now housed in the British Museum, with some displayed at Vindolanda.

Understanding the Roman Goddess Victory (Victoria)

Victoria, the Roman goddess of victory, was an integral part of Roman state religion and military ideology. She was the Roman equivalent of the Greek Nike, but unlike Nike, who was often associated with athletic contests as well as war, Victoria was more specifically tied to Roman military success and imperial power. Temples were dedicated to her in Rome, most notably on the Palatine Hill, and her altar stood in the Senate House. Her imagery was pervasive: she typically appeared as a winged woman, often holding a laurel wreath or a palm branch, symbols of triumph.

Emperors and generals frequently invoked Victoria, attributing their successes to her favour and erecting monuments in her honour. Her presence on coins reinforced the message of Roman dominance across the Empire. For soldiers, Victoria embodied the ideal of martial achievement and the promise of glory. Finding her depiction at Vindolanda, particularly in a context suggesting a commemoration of the end of the Severan wars, reinforces her role in sanctifying Roman military power and marking significant victories on the frontier.

The Mechanics of Volunteer Archaeology

Volunteer archaeology programs, like the one at Vindolanda, offer a unique opportunity for public participation in historical discovery. These programs typically involve working alongside professional archaeologists, undertaking a variety of tasks. Volunteers might engage in physical excavation, carefully removing soil layers with trowels and other tools. They could also be involved in processing finds, which includes washing, sorting, and marking pottery shards, animal bones, and other artefacts. Site recording, such as drawing plans of excavated features or assisting with survey work, is another crucial aspect.

No prior experience is usually required, as training and supervision are provided. What is essential is enthusiasm, a reasonable level of physical fitness, and a willingness to learn and work as part of a team. The Vindolanda Trust, for example, has been running its volunteer program since 1970, with thousands participating over the years. Such initiatives not only provide invaluable assistance to archaeological projects but also foster a deeper public appreciation for heritage and the scientific process of uncovering the past. The demand for these positions is often very high.

Preserving and Displaying the Past: The Vindolanda Museum

The Vindolanda site museum, also known as the Chesterholm Museum, plays a crucial role in conserving and showcasing the remarkable artefacts unearthed during excavations. It houses an extensive collection that vividly illustrates life at the Roman fort and its surrounding civilian settlement. Exhibits include an astonishing array of Roman leatherwork, particularly shoes and boots, for which Vindolanda is famous due to the site's excellent preservation conditions. Visitors can also see examples of Roman armour, weaponry, jewellery, coins, pottery, and glassware.

A dedicated gallery, the "Wooden Underworld," displays preserved timber artefacts, including a rare wooden toilet seat and writing tablets. The museum also features full-sized reconstructions of a Roman temple, shop, and house, allowing visitors to step back in time. Plans are in place for the carved stone artwork depicting Victory to be exhibited for the public. This will occur at the Vindolanda Museum, commencing in the early months of 2026. The display is set to be a component of a broader presentation that showcases newly unearthed historical items, ensuring that these tangible pieces of history are accessible to all.

The Broader Roman Frontier in Northern Britain

Hadrian's Wall was the most famous, but not the only, element of Rome's complex frontier in northern Britain. The Stanegate road, which predated the Wall, was itself a defended line with forts like Vindolanda and Carvoran. North of Hadrian's Wall, the Romans established a series of outpost forts at various times, such as Bewcastle and High Rochester, extending their military presence and surveillance capabilities further into unconquered territory. To the south, a network of roads and forts supported the Wall, ensuring lines of communication and supply back to legionary bases like York.

The Cumbrian coastal defences, extending south from the western end of the Wall at Bowness-on-Solway, also formed part of this integrated frontier system. This zone included forts, milefortlets, and towers. The frontier was not static; it evolved over time. For a period under Emperor Antoninus Pius, the Romans pushed north and constructed the Antonine Wall across the Forth-Clyde isthmus in Scotland, though this was later abandoned in favour of a return to Hadrian's Wall. This dynamic frontier system reflects Rome's ongoing efforts to control and manage its northernmost imperial boundary.

The Future of Excavations at Vindolanda and Magna

Archaeological exploration at Vindolanda is far from complete. Experts estimate that there are potentially hundreds of years of excavation work remaining before all of Vindolanda's secrets are revealed. The Vindolanda Trust also oversees the site of Magna, another Roman fort located on Hadrian's Wall, seven miles west of Vindolanda. In July 2023, a new five-year archaeological and environmental project commenced at Magna, supported by a significant grant from the National Lottery Heritage Fund.

This ground-breaking research at Magna, a site that has not previously undergone modern excavation, aims to understand the impact of climate change on the buried archaeology of the Roman frontier. The project will involve hundreds of volunteers over its duration. The initial focus is on a Roman Milecastle, No. 46, to investigate its construction, use, and eventual decline, providing insights into how the landscape has been managed since Roman times. This ongoing work at both Vindolanda and Magna promises to continue enriching our understanding of Roman Britain for generations to come.

The Enduring Fascination with Roman Britain

The discovery of the Victory relief at Vindolanda taps into a deep and enduring public fascination with Roman Britain. This period, spanning roughly from AD 43 to AD 410, represents a transformative era in the island's history. The Romans brought with them not only military conquest but also new forms of administration, law, architecture, technology, language (Latin), and material culture. Sites like Vindolanda, Hadrian's Wall, and Roman cities such as London (Londinium), Bath (Aquae Sulis), and York (Eboracum) offer tangible connections to this influential past.

The stories of Roman soldiers, settlers, and native Britons adapting to new realities continue to captivate. The wealth of archaeological evidence, from monumental structures to everyday objects and personal letters, allows for a rich and detailed reconstruction of life during this period. The ongoing process of discovery, often driven by the dedication of volunteers, ensures that the narrative of Roman Britain remains vibrant and continually evolving, offering fresh perspectives on a crucial chapter in the nation's history.

The sandstone depiction of Victory, unearthed by dedicated volunteers, stands as a testament to the grandeur of Roman Vindolanda and the profound human connection we can find with the past. This find, poignant in its symbolism of triumph after conflict, enriches the already extensive legacy of this remarkable archaeological site on Hadrian's Wall. It reminds us that Roman forts were more than just military outposts; they were centres of culture, belief, and sophisticated artistry, even at the Empire's farthest reaches. As excavations continue, Vindolanda will undoubtedly offer many more such windows into the vibrant world of Roman Britain.