Experts have discovered curious artifacts in the Market Square that provide new light on Northampton's past.
Archaeologists have revealed some of their finds from Northampton Market Square
They contain a wooden structure that may have once served as a whipping post for punishing offenders.
Additionally, there are indications of what historians claim they were unaware of—a market hall.
As part of a £10 million rehabilitation project, an archaeological dig has been conducted at the location.
Fragments of medieval shoes, linens, ceramics from 1200 to 1350, animal bones, and wood were among the medieval artifacts discovered by a team from the Museum of London Archaeology (MOLA).
Cartographer John Speed's Map of Northampton (1611) shows buildings that could be on the site
Additionally, there were traces of buildings that may have existed hundreds of years ago.
"A fine stone building was found in the centre of the Market Square and seems to be later than most of the medieval layers. It may be a previously unknown market hall," said Mark Roberts, senior project manager with MOLA.
"We have found a stone building in the south-west dated perhaps from 1100 to 1150 and may predate the first use of area as a market in 1236", he added.
Experts say they might have found evidence of a whipping post.
The remnants of some of the houses discovered by archaeologists to the west of the site may be those depicted on a map created by cartographer John Speed in the early 17th century.
Mr Roberts said: "We have also identified the Great Conduit of Northampton at the south of the Market Square, thought to have been built by Edward IV and documented as being repaired in 1509 - it gives its name to Conduit Lane."
The Great Conduit and Little Conduit were built to transport water to the neighboring Northampton Castle.
Additionally, a sizable medieval wooden post has been found, which experts speculate may be proof of a whipping post, which Northampton was rumored to have had.
A piece of black metal which was one of the finds from the market square site
Along with the more well-known stocks and pillory, it would have been used to impose light punishments.
The smaller items will stay in the Northamptonshire collections, and the buildings will be completely recorded and cataloged before Market Square is resurfaced.
According to West Northamptonshire Council, the site has now undergone the majority of the required surface water and drainage upgrades, as well as critical repairs to the Victorian brick sewer system.
While the construction is being done, market vendors have been moved to Commercial Street Car Park, where they will eventually find contemporary market booths, tiered seating, artwork, and a water feature.
