Browse crosses

Location

O/S Grid Ref:  SX/54826/80592       Longitude/Latitude (Degrees+/-):  -4.05300/50.60693 

Map location:  Click here to view map.

Purpose: The purpose of this cross is unknown.

Size: The cross measures 10.25 inches (0.26 metres) tall and 7.5 inches (0.19 metres) across the arms, which are set 3 inches (0.08 metres) down from the top.

 Information: The rock, on which the cross has been cut on a side that faces south, would seem to be the left-hand section of a block of granite that has fractured in two at some time in the past.  Of an irregular shape it comprises six vertical faces, four of which slope in towards the top, and one that curves around from north to west; the eastern (fractured) edge being more or less upright with a short vertical step at its mid point. The north and east sides are almost at 90 degrees to one another.  The rock's greatest dimensions occur on the north-south and east-west axes which both measure 6 feet 7 inches (2.00 metres).  From the south side the upper surface is about 19 inches (0.48 metres) above the ground, the ground falling away rapidly to the north.

Like a number of incised crosses scattered around the moor, no-one seems to know the reason why this one should be placed here.  However, whoever is responsible has selected a nice quiet spot on which to reflect on the beauties of the western edge of the moor.  From the rock, there is a good view down to Bagga Tor Farm, with Standon Hill directly behind it.  Further north Ger Tor can be seen sitting above the Tavy Cleave, with the Hare Tor and Sharp Tor further north again.  To the east the circular Bagga Tor Copse can be seen with Lynch Tor and Limsboro' Cairn on the skyline behind it.  There are also a few small rock basins on the Bagga Tor summit rocks.

Our thanks to Bob Noakes for bringing this cross to our attention and to Bob Woodland and David Munden for visiting the cross on our behalf and providing the photos and measurements etc.