Market Cross, Shepton Mallet

The Market Cross in Shepton Mallet, Somerset, England was built around 1500 and rebuilt in 1841. It is a Grade II* listed building,[1] and has been scheduled as an ancient monument.[2]

Market Cross
LocationShepton Mallet, Somerset, England
Coordinates51°11′27″N 2°32′48″W / 51.1908°N 2.5467°W / 51.1908; -2.5467
Builtc. 1500 rebuilt 1841
Listed Building – Grade II*
Official nameMarket Cross
Designated20 May 1952
Reference no.1058383
Market Cross, Shepton Mallet is located in Somerset
Market Cross, Shepton Mallet
Location of Market Cross in Somerset

History

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The first market cross on the site in the centre of Shepton Mallet by 1500.[1] A plaque says this was funded at a cost of £20 by Walter Buckland and his wife Agnes.[3][4][5]

In 1685 following the Monmouth Rebellion 12 of the followers of James Scott, 1st Duke of Monmouth were hanged, drawn and quartered at the market cross.[2]

In 1841 the market cross was rebuilt by George Phillips Manners.[1]

In 2012 the lead on the roof and surrounding stonework was restored.[6]

Architecture

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The 50 ft (15 m) tall hexagonal structure is built of Doulting stone. It has a central pier surrounded by six arches forming an arcade. The roof has a central spirelet.[1] There is a parapet with crocketed finials above the arches.[2]

References

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  1. ^ a b c d "Market Cross". National Heritage List for England. Historic England. Retrieved 23 March 2018.
  2. ^ a b c "Market cross in the market place". Historic England. Retrieved 23 March 2018.
  3. ^ "The Market Cross, Shepton Mallet". Historic England. Retrieved 23 March 2018.
  4. ^ "A Potted History of Shepton Mallet". The Cross at Croscombe. Retrieved 23 March 2018.
  5. ^ Bush, Robin (1994). Somerset: The Complete Guide. Wimborne: Dovecote Press. pp. 179–181. ISBN 1-874336-26-1.
  6. ^ "Shepton Mallet's market cross landmark is restored". BBC. Retrieved 23 March 2018.