Gravestone Associated with Tolpuddle Martyrs at Fordingbridge Museum

The headstone of Robert Standfield, father of martyrs Thomas and John Standfield, was incorporated into the Fordingbridge Museum collection after its discovery in the 1980s at the Greyhound Pub site. The Tolpuddle Martyrs, six agricultural workers, were sentenced to transportation for unlawful oaths in 1834, sparking national outrage. Phil Harding of Wessex Archaeology donated the gravestone, highlighting its significance in both local and national history. Museum director Jane Ireland emphasized its potential to engage visitors and reflect nineteenth-century societal values. Although damaged, the gravestone is now on display, while Standfield’s complete headstone remains in Verwood churchyard.

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