The Life of a Civilian

A settlement called a ‘vicus’ would often grow up around the fort. This was home to civilians who lived along the wall. These included the merchants and shop keepers followed the soldiers around the Roman empire and made their living from them. Sadly, we know little about their lives on the Antonine Wall, and only a few hints remain of their presence.

A tombstone found near Bar Hill was raised by a man named Salmanes for his 15-year-old son, also called Salmanes. Salmanes may have been an eastern trader with links to the Syrian soldiers based at the fort. Close by, the tombstone bearing the name of a woman called Verecunda was found.

Commanding officers brought their families to live with them in the forts. We know of one woman, Vibia Pacata, the wife of a centurion of the Sixth Legion based at Westerwood from an altar she dedicated. The commander and his family lived in the most lavish quarters of the fort: the praetorium. This had heated rooms, private bathing facilities, slaves’ quarters, and a private dining room.

Ordinary soldiers were not allowed to marry, but many had unofficial wives and children in the civilian settlements outside the fort. These may have been traders or helped out in the fields, growing food for themselves and to sell to the garrison.