Blue Plaque Unveiling to Antiquarian Robert Blair
A pioneering antiquarian has been honoured with a commemorative Blue Plaque recognising his pivotal work in the excavation and preservation of South Shields’ Roman heritage.
It is through the dedication and efforts of South Shields-born Robert Blair that the site of the town’s Roman fort was excavated before housing development got underway in the area.
The plaque to Blair was unveiled at Arbeia by the Mayor of South Tyneside, Councillor Jay Potts, during a ceremony also attended by the Mayoress Audrey Huntley, historians, representatives of North East Museums, the Society of Antiquaries of Newcastle upon Tyne and the community.
The Mayor said:
“The Mayoress and I were delighted to unveil this blue plaque in honour of Robert Blair. His vision and commitment to preserving our local history have left an enduring mark on South Tyneside. Arbeia Roman Fort stands today as a testament to his legacy and it is fitting that we celebrate his achievements in this way.”
Born in 1845 into a family of Tyne Pilots, Robert Blair’s passion for local history began in childhood when his uncle gave him a Roman coin found at the Lawe Top. This early inspiration led to a lifelong fascination with Roman artefacts and the heritage of South Shields.
At 29, Blair was elected a member of the Society of Antiquaries of Newcastle-upon-Tyne, later serving as secretary and editor of its journal – a role he held for 40 years, earning a medal for his dedicated service. From 1883 until his death at 79, he was a driving force within the society.
Blair travelled across the North East to document ancient artefacts and buildings, using his drawing skills to create precise records of his discoveries. His detailed notes and illustrations, compiled after his death in 1923, are preserved in the archives at Woodhorn and Durham University, with The Word in South Shields holding his work on the Roman Fort excavation.
He played a crucial role in saving the Arbeia site from development, securing funding for the first excavations and meticulously recording the findings between 1875 and 1877. Blair’s efforts established the site as the country’s first public archaeological park – originally the People’s Roman Park, later known as Arbeia.
The Robert Blair plaque has been funded by local historian Jean Stokes who made the Blue Plaque nomination, the Society of Antiquaries of Newcastle upon Tyne and North East Museums.
Jean said:
“I knew nothing of this amazing man until 2017 when I began researching for my book on Harton Village in 1900. Robert Blair lived in Harton Lodge for over 50 years, raised his family there and is buried in St Peter’s Churchyard facing the site of his home. I have had the joy of seeing Blair’s sketches of antiquarian items in Northumberland, Durham and South Shields archives/library and to read his accompanying notes and many of his letters to other antiquarians.
“I believe that he was totally dedicated to recording and raising awareness of the historical treasures of North East England and I am delighted to see this plaque in honour of his achievements. He was born on The Lawe Top and it seems right that this plaque should be placed here.”
Don O’Meara, President of the Society of Antiquaries of Newcastle upon Tyne, added:
“Robert Blair joined the Society of Antiquaries of Newcastle in January 1874 and by 1883 had embarked on a 40-year tenure as secretary and editor of the Society’s journal. Even after 100 years his energy and contribution to the Society are still remembered and the passion he had for the archaeological remains of his hometown are to a large part why the Roman fort at South Shields has been so extensively revealed and studied.”
Blair’s legacy not only preserved Arbeia for future generations but also helped to secure its status as a site of international significance, now recognised as part of the UNESCO Frontiers of the Roman Empire World Heritage Site.
Geoff Woodward, Manager of Arbeia Roman Fort, said:
“Robert Blair was instrumental in ensuring that Arbeia – a key archaeological site on the Hadrian’s Wall frontier was excavated and preserved. The collection of artefacts recovered from Arbeia are amongst the best from any fort in Roman Britain and have added greatly to our understanding of life at the time. We are delighted that Blair’s important contribution is being honoured with a Blue Plaque.”
The South Tyneside Blue Plaque scheme continues to celebrate the Borough’s rich history by recognising individuals and places of outstanding significance. Up to three plaques are installed each year, ensuring that the stories of South Tyneside’s most influential figures are preserved for future generations.
Councillor Judith Taylor, Lead Member for Culture, Leisure and the Visitor Economy at South Tyneside Council, said:
“We have a rich and proud heritage in South Tyneside. Through these special Blue Plaques, we honour significant people and places that have added cultural or civic value to South Tyneside or have played a key role in helping to shape our Borough’s history and heritage to what it is today.
“We are delighted to celebrate the life and work of Robert Blair through the raising of this Blue Plaque and to pay tribute to the incredible legacy he left behind.”
