The replica of a Roman emperor’s bronze bust will be making a rare reappearance at the Suffolk village where it was first found more than a century ago during a celebration of the community’s history.
Emperor Claudius will be the star attraction of the Rendham Recalled event, which takes place on Sunday, March 29, and draws on experiences from some of the village’s veterans.
Originally discovered in the river Alde in 1907 by two Rendham boys, Arthur Godbold and Arthur Baxter, the bust was later bought for five shillings by the Benhall school master.
He identified the head as having been torn from the statue by Boudicca’s Iceni warriors, and it was later sold for £15,500 to the British Museum.
A replica, which is usually kept at St Michael’s Church will be on display at the village hall during the event where historian Charles Seely will discuss its significance.
Mr Baxter’s niece, Monica Kitson, is one of five speakers attending the event, who will be regaling audiences with their memories of the village.
Well-known characters; former buildings that have long since gone and old forgotten trades, will be among the subjects discussed, along with tales from village events and memories of the village’s war years.
Event organiser Albert Lain said: “I was so entranced by the stories I was hearing from older members of the community, I was determined to put together this event.”
Mr Lain thanked the speakers for supporting the event, which will raise funds for new village hall equipment. Tickets for the event, which starts at 2.30pm, cost £5. They can be reserved from Mr Lain on 01728 663567.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here