March 20, 2023 3.00 pm This story is over 24 months old

New Boston statue to tell Pilgrim Women story

Commemorating the town’s history
The works have been created by a sculptor with the help of the community.

A new sculpture commemorating Boston’s role in the Pilgrim and Puritan story is planned for outside the town’s church.

Arts organisation Transported has applied to Boston Borough Council to place two 52cm sculptures of of Pilgrim Women on a 90cm stone plinth on Church Close outside the library.

Documents submitted to the council said the organisation was working with the authority to “explore the town’s Pilgrim themes” in light of the 2020 Pilgrim Mayflower anniversary and in the run-up to the 2030 Puritan anniversary.

The sculptures were created by artist Rachel Carter who ran a series of weaving workshops in the county, engaging with women from both immigrant and non-immigrant backgrounds.

As part of the project, Rachel was scanned in Tudor clothing using digital technology and a 3D print was then cast in bronze.

The two female figures are bound together based on the community-made woven cords, which were stiffened with wax to stiffen and hold them before being cast in bronze.

The statues will be placed between St Botolph’s Church and Boston Library.

A report to the council said: “The sculpture represents an important historical narrative with significant local meaning.

“As public art and commemoration, it resonates with the landmark Church of St Botolph.

“When seen and experienced from within the church grounds, the statue will provoke interest without diminishing the special interest and significance of the Grade I listed Church.”

The land is owned by the church who have given permission for the sculpture to be installed.

The work has previously been displayed in the Collection, in Lincoln.

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