History
The cross is believed to be of medieval origin, serving as a focal point for religious and communal gatherings in the ancient parish of Mottram. Documentary evidence suggests that an "ancient cross" stood adjacent to the churchyard as early as the 18th century, noted by John Aikin in his 1795 description of the village. [1] [2]
About fifty years ago, the houses were few in number, and principally situated on top of the hill, adjoining the churchyard, where is an ancient cross, and at a small distance the parsonage house, now gone much to decay and occupied by working people. It is only of late years that the town has had any considerable increase, which has been chiefly at the bottom of the hill, but some latterly on the top...
— John Aikin, A Description of the Country from thirty to forty miles round Manchester (1795)
The structure has undergone two notable phases of restoration during its long history. The first took place in 1760, when the work was likely intended to stabilise the original stonework and preserve the remnants of the medieval cross, ensuring its continued presence as a landmark in the village. [3]
A second significant restoration occurred in 1897, marking the Diamond Jubilee of Queen Victoria. [4] This commemorative effort reflected the Victorian era's interest in heritage and public monuments. The restoration not only repaired and enhanced the structure but also symbolised a connection between the village's medieval past and the national celebration of the monarch's sixty-year reign.
On 6 February 1986, the cross was designated a Grade II* listed building for its architectural and historic significance. [3]
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