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
Coordinates51.1908°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
Location of Market Cross in Somerset

History

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

The 50 ft (15 m) tall octagonal 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
  1. "Market Cross". National Heritage List for England. Historic England. Retrieved 23 March 2018.
  2. "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.
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