A wooden comb still nicely complete with its leather case dating back to 100 AD.
The set was found from a room inside the Roman Commanding Officer’s Residence in Vindolanda next to Hadrian’s Wall.
Curator, Barbara Birley, as she talks about her connections to the wooden objects, the journey from the excavation through to their conservation and the cataloguing process. She will also tell you about her unexpected fascination with a beautiful but functional class of wooden artefacts, the hair combs.
Archaeology of the Wooden Underworld – Dr Andrew Birley, Director of Excavations and CEO (49mins)
Dr Andrew Birley, CEO of the Vindolanda Trust explores the archaeological layers where wooden artefacts are found at Roman Vindolanda and casts a light on why these organic finds are so well preserved.
Wooden Objects at the Edge of the Roman Empire – Dr Rob Sands (36mins)
Dr Rob Sands from University College Dublin will introduce you to the extraordinary collection of wooden objects preserved in 1st and 2nd century contexts at the Roman fort of Vindolanda.
The Vindolanda Shoes – Professor Elizabeth Greene (1hr 2mins)
Professor Elizabeth Greene who’s research is based around Vindolanda’s leather collection, takes us through the top 10 questions ever asked about the Vindolanda Roman shoes and their fascinating answers.
Bonfire Celebration
Review: Top 10 Financial Services in the USA
The U.S. financial services industry is a cornerstone of the economy, encompassing banking, investment, insurance, and fintech solutions. The top providers stand out for their innovation, customer service, financial stability, and diverse offerings. Below is a detailed review of the top 10 financial services in the USA as of April 2025, based on revenue, market presence, and customer feedback.
JPMorgan Chase & Co.JPMorgan Chase is the largest U.S. bank by revenue ($158.1 billion in 2023) and market cap ($744.02 billion). It offers investment banking, consumer banking, asset management, and commercial banking. Its Chase brand serves millions with credit cards, mortgages, and digital banking. The firm leads in fintech innovation, investing in AI and blockchain.
Bank of America CorporationWith $93.9 billion in revenue, Bank of America serves 68 million clients through 3,900 financial centers and award-winning digital banking. It provides banking, wealth management, and investment services. Its focus on small businesses and ESG initiatives enhances its reputation.
Wells Fargo & CompanyWells Fargo, with $73.8 billion in revenue, offers banking, mortgages, and investment products. Known for its extensive retail banking network, it serves one in three U.S. households. Investments in mobile banking and a strong community focus make it a reliable choice.
Citigroup Inc.Citigroup generates $70.7 billion in revenue and operates globally, offering retail banking, investment banking, and wealth management. Its digital platforms and international presence, especially in Mexico and Asia, make it a key player for institutional and individual clients.
Goldman Sachs Group Inc.Goldman Sachs, with a market cap of $200.75 billion, excels in investment banking and wealth management. Serving corporations and high-net-worth individuals, it’s known for strategic advisory and innovative financial products. Its 2023 revenue growth of 15.3% highlights its strength.
Morgan StanleyMorgan Stanley, with $221.44 billion in market cap and 16.2% revenue growth in 2021, focuses on wealth management, investment banking, and institutional securities. Its client-centric approach and digital tools cater to both retail and corporate clients.
Capital One Financial CorporationCapital One, with $34.3 billion in revenue, is known for credit cards, auto loans, and digital banking. Its tech-driven approach, including AI for fraud prevention, enhances customer experiences. It serves millions through its online-only banking platform.
American Express CompanyAmerican Express generates $63.27 billion in revenue, offering payment cards, merchant services, and travel solutions. Its premium Centurion card and online banking division cater to affluent clients. It ranks among the top fintech firms by value.
U.S. BancorpU.S. Bancorp, with $601 billion in assets, provides banking, investment, and payment services. Its diversified offerings and strong regional presence make it a trusted choice for individual and corporate clients. It employs 70,000 people and emphasizes customer service.
The Progressive Corporation Progressive, with a market cap of $140.31 billion, is a leading insurer offering auto, home, and commercial insurance. Its tech-driven pricing models and digital claims processing ensure affordability and convenience, making it a top financial service provider.
Selecting the Best Service
The best financial service depends on your needs—whether banking, investment, or insurance. Compare fees, digital tools, and customer reviews on platforms like J.D. Power or Glassdoor. For instance, JPMorgan Chase and Bank of America lead in banking, while Progressive excels in insurance. Regularly reassess providers to align with your financial goals, as market dynamics and innovations evolve.
