What stories have been hidden in plain sight for centuries?
On Thursday 7 May 2026, join us in Winchester for a fascinating evening uncovering the marks left behind by medieval hands. Marks of the Past: Discovering Medieval Graffiti in Winchester and Beyond invites you to look closer at the walls around you and discover a hidden layer of history.
Hosted at The United Church, Winchester, this Midweek Musings talk explores the work of the Hampshire Medieval Graffiti Project, a volunteer-led initiative that has been revealing centuries-old carvings across the county since 2016. From churches to historic buildings, these markings have remained unnoticed for generations, quietly preserving the thoughts and beliefs of those who came before us.
Many of these carvings are simple. Crosses, symbols, initials. Yet together they offer a rare glimpse into the lives of ordinary people whose stories are often missing from written history. These small marks, scratched into stone, connect us directly to the past in a way few sources can.
The talk will be led by Karen Wardley, an archaeologist and the project’s coordinator. With a background as Collections Manager for Southampton City Council’s arts and heritage service and now a trustee of King John’s House and Museum in Romsey, she brings both expertise and enthusiasm to this remarkable field of study.
As Karen explains, “This project has given me the perfect excuse to explore our county’s rich heritage and to discover intriguing ancient marks previously hidden in plain sight.”
During the evening, she will share some of the most intriguing discoveries from Winchester and beyond, revealing how these overlooked carvings can help uncover new stories from Hampshire’s past.
Whether you are interested in medieval history, archaeology, or simply curious about the hidden details in historic spaces, this talk offers a fresh and thought-provoking perspective.
Tickets include a complimentary soft drink on arrival.
Event Details
📍 The United Church, Winchester
📅 Thursday 7 May 2026
🕢 7:30pm – 9:00pm
🎟 Hampshire History Trust Friends: £12
🎟 General admission: £14
Take a closer look at the past and uncover the stories hidden in stone.
Hampshire History Trust 