Liverpool University has analysed a recent Roman find, giving us more insight into Wrexham’s rich history.
Last September a Roman lead ingot also known as a ‘pig’ went on display at the museum.
The pig was found near Rossett by detectorist Rob Jones, who immediately notified the local finds officer, allowing the object to be examined whilst still in the ground.
The pig bears the name of Marcus Trebellius Maximus, the governor of the province of Britannia between 63 and 69CE, during the reign of the Emperor Nero.
Wrexham is the only part of the UK where an inscription bearing Marcus Trebellius Maximus name has been found, so the find attracted much excitement nationally.
The extraction of lead and silver was a significant reason for the invasion of Britain under the Emperor Claudius in 43CE. We know that the Romans exploited the mineral resources of Flintshire and possibly Minera, but we don’t have clear evidence at the latter site.
The University of Liverpool analysis of the pig appears to show that it comes from a local north east Wales source.
This means that the Roman place name mentioned on the inscription Magul… is a local mining site, perhaps either Ffrith or Minera.
It also proves that the Roman authorities were mining and processing lead, and possibly silver, in this area in the pre Flavian period (before AD 69), much earlier than previously thought.
You can learn more about local history, take a virtual tour and view the ‘Life under lockdown’ online exhibit by visiting the Wrexham Museum website.
You can also follow the museum on Facebook and Twitter for the latest updates.
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