Kettering history weekend celebrates town's links to abolition of slavery including William Knibb, a champion of 'freedom, dignity and justice'
Kettering history enthusiasts have followed in the footsteps of some of the town’s famous Non-conformists during a ‘immersive’ walk through its streets.
During an ‘action-packed’ weekend of activities designed to bring the town’s past vividly to life, guests enjoyed an art exhibition, guided walk and museum visit.
Organised by Kettering Civic Society, the activities took place in and around the area that was a hot-bed of social change that led in part to enslaved people in the Caribbean being given freedom.
Monica Ozdemir, secretary of Kettering Civic Society, said: “The programme began with a guided walk led by local historian Kathy Haigh, who took participants in the footsteps of Kettering’s Non-conformists.
“A visit to the Fuller Heritage Museum followed, where volunteers welcomed the group and shared insights into the Baptist Missionary Society and the work of William Knibb and William Carey.
"Visitors also had the rare opportunity to view the museum’s collection of historic artefacts, normally accessible by appointment only.”
The weekend continued with a cream tea at Toller Meeting Rooms before concluding with a major highlight – an exhibition celebrating William Knibb by artist Daniel Kelly, supported by students from Bishop Stopford School.
Kettering Town Council supported the exhibition with funding and mayor of Kettering Cllr Ben Jameson opened the event.
He said: “I had the pleasure of opening the William Knibb Art Exhibition. As part of Heritage Week, the exhibition celebrates the life and legacy of Kettering native William Knibb, whose work was pivotal in ending slavery in Jamaica - where a town is still named in Kettering’s honour.
“Through Daniel’s paintings we see not only William Knibb himself, but also the causes he championed – freedom, dignity, justice and love for humanity.
"He dreamed of a land that embodied these principles, and we are fortunate to carry that legacy here in Kettering.
“It was also great to see a painting by Bishop Stopford students on the legacy from Jamaica.”
Mrs Ozdemir added: “Throughout the afternoon we had over 100 visitors. The walk attracted such interest that we are planning an additional tour. I’d like to say a huge thank you to Kathy Haigh for leading the tour of the town and David and Carol Milner for opening Fuller Heritage Museum.”