Eight new Blue Plaques have been unveiled across West Northamptonshire, celebrating remarkable individuals who helped shape the area’s history, culture and community.
The plaques are part of the Histories of Northamptonshire project, led by Northampton Museum and Art Gallery with support from Arts Council England. They build on the original Blue Plaque scheme launched in 2019 and highlight people whose contributions span more than four centuries.
Following over 60 public nominations and careful review by a panel of local historians and community representatives, eight individuals have been selected:
• Wenman Joseph Bassett-Lowke (1877–1953), pioneering model engineer, industrialist and Labour councillor associated with 78 Derngate
• Alfred Cockerill (1842–1927), philanthropist and supporter of sport who helped secure the future of Northamptonshire County Cricket Club
• James Gribble (1868–1934), trade unionist, socialist activist and founder of the Pioneer Co-operative Boot Works
• Joseph George Grose (1861–1939), innovative cycle maker, motor manufacturer and civic leader
• Jane Leeson (c.1560–1648), philanthropist who founded a free school for poor children in Abthorpe
• Harriett May Nicholls (1884–1965), social reformer and Northampton’s first woman to serve a full term as Mayor
• Tom Osborne Robinson (1904–1976), influential theatrical designer and artist
• Stanley Unwin (1911–2002), comedian and broadcaster known for his distinctive comic language
The plaques have been installed at locations connected to each individual, including homes, workplaces and community buildings across West Northamptonshire.
Blue Plaques continue to highlight the people whose legacy still shapes West Northamptonshire today, helping residents and visitors connect with the area’s rich heritage.
Supported using public funding by the National Lottery through Arts Council England.
