Hidden Histories: Women of Waterloo
Hidden Histories: Women of Waterloo was an innovative virtual heritage and arts programme taught by experts in history, educational wargaming and creative writing. It was the first Waterloo Uncovered online programme for and about military spouses, extending our support to those who would normally be in a supporting role themselves.
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Programme Content
Hidden Histories: Women of Waterloo was the pilot of a Heritage Lottery Funded programme with a dual purpose: supporting the military spouses of today while exploring the often overlooked lives and stories of the military spouses of 1815. The team, led by archaeologist Sarah Dhanjal and historical novelist Katy Moran, hosted live panels featuring expert historians and weekly virtual sessions exploring the lives of women at Waterloo and beyond. These sessions examined first-hand accounts, historical documents and more to uncover important stories that have often gone ignored in narratives of the Battle, as well as tapping into the modern-day experiences of the programme’s participant. Participants were welcomed into a a friendly group of like-minded military spouses, with whom they were able to discuss their shared experiences while learning more about the untold experiences of women more than 200 years ago, all whilst receiving year-round support from our expert wellbeing team.
No prior knowledge or experience of
archaeology or military history is needed, and
since the course takes place online, it doesn’t
matter where participants are based. This
programme aims to reduce loneliness for its
participants as well as targeting isolation.
Programme Structure
The pilot of the Hidden Histories programme took place in Autumn 2022 and supported 12 military spouses, 4 of whom were veterans themselves. Year round wellbeing support was offered, and the programme culminated in a reunion in early 2023.
Beneficiary's progress was measured using the Office for National Statistics guidelines for tackling loneliness.

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