Call goes out to pay tribute to town goddess

In what is thought to be the first event of its kind for many years, the community of Buxton is planning to say "thank you" to Arnemetia, their healing water goddess.

After installing a locally-created artwork of the deity to welcome visiting rail users, voluntary group, Friends of Buxton Station (FoBS) teamed up with community artists, Two Left Hands to remind folk about the link between town, water and Arnemetia.

Dave Carlisle, Chairman of FoBS said: "We are so lucky to have our very own Buxton water goddess. She was revered by Celts, Romans and Ancient Britons, but for some reason, very few seem to know about her nowadays. It seems right to offer our tributes now, especially as the town will hold a year-long water festival in 2027."

Called 'Voices of the Water: a tribute to Arnemetia,' the community groups have organised a procession from the goddess stone at Buxton Station, created by local artist, Suzanne Pearson.

Following a giant puppet of Arnemetia, a saluting Roman centurion and marching drummers at around 6pm on Tuesday 24 November, the procession will pass the local water wells before settling at the Pump Room Visitor Centre in The Crescent for a series of musical tributes from Buxton musicians.

Also taking part by performing a short water ceremony are Arnemetia enthusiasts Barbara Meiklejohn-Free and Flavia Kate Peters, who incidentally own a shop named after the goddess on Market Street.

Bret Gaunt of Buxton Museum, who is making a short presentation at the event said: “We know so few facts about Arnemetia, but there is no doubt just how important she is to the spa town of Buxton and its people.” 

Dave recorded thanks to Education Manager, Louise Brooks and the Trustees of Buxton Crescent Heritage Trust for providing free community use of the Pump Room for this innovative event.  He went on to throw open an invitation for Buxton folk to join the procession and musical tribute, which are both free of charge.