Eight new Blue Plaques unveiled celebrating remarkable people from West Northamptonshire’s past

West Northamptonshire’s rich history and heritage are being celebrated with the unveiling of eight new Blue Plaques recognising people who made a lasting contribution to the area’s culture, community and innovation.

The plaques have been created as part of Histories of Northamptonshire, an Arts Council-funded project led by Northampton Museum and Art Gallery, and build on the earlier Blue Plaque scheme launched in 2019 which recognised four notable individuals across the area.

The new plaques honour a diverse group of figures whose achievements span more than four centuries of local history – from philanthropists and pioneering engineers to political leaders, artists and entertainers.

More than 60 nominations were submitted by members of the public when the project opened last year. A panel of local historians and community representatives carefully reviewed each nomination against strict criteria, including a clear connection to West Northamptonshire and a demonstrable contribution to the area’s history and culture.

Following detailed consideration, eight individuals were selected for commemoration:

• 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 who helped shape Northampton’s transport industry.
• Jane Leeson (c.1560–1648) - philanthropist who founded a free school for poor children in Abthorpe in 1642.
• 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 who worked with theatres across the UK while remaining rooted in Northampton.
• Stanley Unwin (1911–2002) - much-loved comedian and broadcaster known for his inventive comic language “Unwinese”.

The plaques were installed at locations closely connected to each individual during February, including homes, workplaces and community buildings across West Northamptonshire.

To mark the project’s completion, an official launch event will take place on Tuesday 17 March at Northampton Museum and Art Gallery, where all eight plaques and their stories will be showcased. A new information brochure featuring the eight new plaques alongside the four plaques installed as part of the 2019 scheme will also be published later this year.

“Blue plaques are a wonderful way to celebrate the people who helped shape our communities and whose influence can still be felt across West Northamptonshire today. These individuals each played an important role in our history and left a legacy that continues to inspire.

“This project has also shown the strength of local pride in our heritage, with more than 60 nominations submitted by residents who were keen to see their local heroes recognised. We’re delighted to unveil these plaques and to help share their stories with residents and visitors.”Cllr James Petter, Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure at WNC

Blue Plaques can be found across towns and villages in West Northamptonshire, marking buildings and places connected with individuals who made a significant contribution to the area’s history.

More information about the new plaques and the previous Blue Plaque holders can be found on the West Northamptonshire Council website.