Museums

Help us chose the 100th Object for our exhibition A History of Northamptonshire in 100 Objects.

Following public nominations we have shortlisted five objects, each having a story to tell of Northamptonshire in the 21st Century. Now we want you to make the final decision.

Find out more and cast your vote here 

The five nominations are

Corby Processions banner

Created in 2018 for PROCESSIONS, a national project marking 100 years of Votes for Women, this banner embodies Corby’s activist spirit. Designed by Northamptonshire artists Carole Miles & Phiona Richards, it was crafted with local women, including Corby’s first female steelworks trade union rep. Featuring violets, a suffrage symbol, it bears two powerful messages: “Women Together Will Change the World” (from the youngest participant) and “Deeds Not Words”—the historic Suffragette and Corby motto.

The Corby Processions Banner captures the resilient, forward-thinking spirit of Corby and Northamptonshire in the 21st century. As a symbol of unity and activism, it honours the county’s steel industry roots and ongoing fight for women’s rights. Celebrating the county’s history, the banner stands as a testament to Northamptonshire communities continuing strength and progress.

Northampton Town Football Club League 2 Play Off Trophy 2020

 

Won at Wembley in June 2020, this League 2 play-off trophy won by Northampton Town Football Club marks a unique moment in football history — the first ever won behind closed doors due to Covid restrictions.

Beyond the pitch, the trophy became a symbol of community spirit, playing a key role in the club’s Tackling Loneliness project, supporting Northamptonshire during lockdown. A true testament to the county’s 21st century resilience, both on and off the field.

Diwali Festival Lantern

 

Now in its 25th year, the annual Diwali lights festival in Northampton with its spectacular procession featuring giant puppets including a mechanical elephant and lanterns made by local school children is a celebration of the Hindu festival of Diwali that marks the triumph of light over darkness.

From humble beginnings in 2000 when Diwali lights were added to a Christmas tree in Northampton town centre, the event is now the biggest festival of its kind in Northamptonshire and a Diwali lantern made by local school children represents the bringing together of diverse communities from across the county.

Dr. Martens Vegan Boot

 

Made in Northamptonshire since 1960, the icnic Dr. Martens footwear brand started life as a sturdy work boot before becoming a symbol of subcultures, musicians and free thinkers worldwide. 

Revitalised in the 2000s, production of handmade Dr. Marten boots returned to Northampton, and the style has continued to evolve in the 21st century with new styles including a Vegan boot — losing the leather but keeping the rebellious and Northamptonshire non-conformist spirit.

Binty Chick

 

Known as Binty chicks, the brightly coloured chickens painted on dustbins, garage doors and sheds across Northamptonshire first appeared in 2021. Created by local anonymous graffiti artist “Binty Bint”, Northampton’s own Banksy, they have rapidly become a feature of the local urban environment.

These bright and happy graffiti artworks have become for some a symbol of the town and county. “Its like seeing the lift tower from the motorway. After a long car journey when I see the one on the bus shelter in Harpole, I know that I am home”.