THE ANTIQUITIES OF DURHAM. (To THE EDITOR OF THE "
SPECTATOR."1
SIR,—The Spectator of April 28th, reviewing five volumes of the "Victoria County Histories," makes an interesting com- parison between the early conditions of Durham and Sussex.
In the course of the review it is implied that the latter county has more notable remains of the Roman occupation than Durham possesses. I think that when the chapter of the history dealing with the Roman age in Durham is published, we shall find the county richer in that respect than is generally supposed. Under the limitations imposed on the scope of my chapter on the ancient earthworks of Durham, I could make but the briefest referents to Roman remains, and express regret at the absolute want of reverence for the past which has permitted the mutilation or destruction of these priceless footprints of history.
It is worth noticing that no less than four fortified stations existed on the short length of the Watling Street which passes through the county. Remains of defensive work exist at the most southern station, Piercebridge, less at Binchester, much more at Lanchester, and a little at Ebehester, all on the thirty miles of the main Roman way. In addition thereto were important stations on the eastern branch of the road—at Chester-le-Street, and South Shields and elsewhere—but of these all traces of walls are lost. A few outlying " camps " may also be of Roman origin or occupation. Thus it is evident that the district now known as County Durham was once richer, in proportion to its size, than almost any other portion of Britain south of the great wall.
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