When I was out the other evening I discussed the Stonyhurst Crosses and mentioned I’d spotted another one nearby marked on the map.
The cross was not marked precisely and appeared to be in the middle of a plantation with no obvious access. Aerial views didn’t show it. I could find no reference to it in Stonyhurst’s history.
As it is just a short ride up the hill and they have opened the roads after the plantation fires I went for a quick look this afternoon. I was able to hop over the wall near the water catchment plant on Brownslow Brook. Two more walls and I was in the plantation. There has been recent felling and replanting so the going was difficult. I made for the highest point and there amongst some mature trees was the cross. An old-looking base supporting a well carved more modern stone cross. There were no inscriptions.
Close by there was evidence of previous game bird breeding, enclosures and feeding stations, but no other sign of human passage. I fought my way through the plantation to make my escape. It is going to be difficult to incorporate this unnamed cross into my planned walk around the “Stonyhurst Crosses”
You do wonder what antiquities there are that have been completely lost in overgrowth?
Yes, this one is at least marked on the OS map.
A lot of “stones” disappeared under the plough.
Only a little trespassing was needed to find it.
I’m in contact with an ex master from Stonyhurst School for more history on this and the other crosses.
When I saw the title I was excited. The immediate association I made had me thinking there had been a newly discovered Dashiell Hammett manuscript being a follow up to The Maltese Falcon.
Your cross appears to be related to the Celtic version but as you say probably more modern. I wonder who the landowner is and whether they may be able to shed more light. I suppose a contact there would involve you confessing to a bit of minor trespass but with your diplomacy that wouldn’t be much of a problem.
Watch this space. I’m in touch with an ex Stonyhurst master and about to be entangled in a dangerous web of crime and intrigue.
Only minor trespassing is involved so far.
What a fascinating find. It must have been very satisfying to come across it, an in such good condition.
Yes I was pleased with myself for finding it, I wonder how many other people have reached it.
Hopefully more information to follow.
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