Reasons for Designation
The Golden Stone boundary marker, 250m north west of Edge House Farm is one of
an important late medieval series of boundary markers on the lands known as
Alderley Edge. Although many of these have been lost, this example has been
preserved in its original location. It also has much folklore attached to it
locally and is therefore of great importance to the community. It is on land
open to the public and so forms an element in the resources for education and
recreation created by The National Trust.
Details
The monument includes a large rectangular boulder situated in an earthen field
bank on the north side of the road to Edge House Farm. The stone was used as a
boundary marker for the late medieval estates of the Stanley and De Trafford
families which occupied Alderley Edge and this is one of the `merestones'
which is noted in the Perambulation of May 1598. It is also indicated on the
1775 Enclosure Map. In addition it lies on the boundary between Over Alderley
and Nether Alderley parishes.
The stone is formed of Engine Vein conglomerate and was quarried very close to
its present location. It has been deliberately split apart at some time in the
past. It measures 2.60m by 1.90m and stands 0.90m high. There is evidence that
an attempt has been made to destroy it by blasting in the past, as there is a
shothole in the northern side and pick marks on the cracked surfaces.
The post and wire fencing adjacent to the monument is not included in the
scheduling but the ground beneath these features is included.
Legacy
The contents of this record have been generated from a legacy data system.
Legacy System number:
33860
Legacy System:
RSM
Sources
Other
Legal
This monument is scheduled under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Areas Act 1979 as amended as it appears to the Secretary of State to be of national importance. This entry is a copy, the original is held by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport.
End of official list entry
