One of the most significant contributions of the Romans in Huddersfield was the construction of Roman roads. These roads were essential for transporting troops, goods, and information across Roman Britain.
“With the exception of some outlying portions… the whole Empire was penetrated by these itinera. There is hardly a district to which we might expect a Roman official to be sent, on service either civil or military, where we do not find roads” - William Smith (1890) writing about the Itinerary of Antonius, these were registers of roads around the ancient Roman empire.
Huddersfield was intersected by two important Roman roads. One of these linked Chester (Deva), a key Roman city, with York (Eboracum), one of the most important Roman settlements in Britain.
Roman roads were known for their durability and were constructed in layers, with a gravel or stone surface on top. The roads were generally straight, efficient routes designed to cut through difficult terrain.
These roads helped establish Roman control and influence in the region. They also made it easier to move goods in and out of the area. Items from across the Roman Empire, such as pottery, tools, wine, and olive oil, could now reach Slack, bringing new products and ideas to the local population.
