Listed Building: Abthorpe Memorial Cross (1425058)

List Entry Description Summary of Building First World War unveiled 1920, with later additions. Reasons for Designation Abthorpe Memorial Cross, which stands on the churchyard wall of St John's Church, is listed at Grade II for the following reasons: * Historic interest: as an eloquent witness to the tragic impact of world events on the local community, and the sacrifice it made in the conflicts of the C20; * Design: a well-executed medieval-style cross; * Group value: with the Grade II-listed church of St John. History 'The memorial was unveiled on 31 October 1920 by Sir Richard Atkins. Details The memorial stands on the east wall of the churchyard of the Grade II-listed church of St John, facing on to the village green.'It comprises a 3 m high Weldon stone cross, with an inverted sword running down the front face. At the bottom of the shaft is a small raised shield bearing the cross of St George. The cross rises from an octagonal plinth, set on an octagonal base. The plinth carries an inscription carved in relief reading TO THE GLORY OF GOD AND IN LOVING MEMORY/ (6 NAMES)/ WHO GAVE THEIR LIVES FOR THE DEFENCE OF OUR COUNTRY/ IN THE GREAT WAR 1914 – 1918/ ALSO (the names of those who served and returned are inscribed on a square stone beneath a hood mould set in the churchyard wall beneath the memorial). A metal plaque installed in 2005 on the upper stage of the base repeats the principal wording on the plinth. The name of one man who fell in the Second World War was added to the monument after that conflict. Selected Sources Northampton Mercury, 5 November 1920

Record last edited

Apr 20 2018 1:44PM