Summary

The Countess’ Pillar, 300m west of Lightwater Bridge.

Source: Historic England

Details

This record was the subject of a minor enhancement on 29 March 2016. This record has been generated from an "old county number" (OCN) scheduling record. These are monuments that were not reviewed under the Monuments Protection Programme and are some of our oldest designation records.

The monument includes the remains of a stone pillar of 17th century date, situated alongside the A66 east of Penrith. The pillar stands to a height of 4.2m and has an octagonal shaft with a chamfered base and moulded capping, above which is a square block with a cornice, pyramidal capping and finial. On the north face of the square block are two carved and painted shields of arms, on the south face is a brass tablet with an inscription and the remaining faces hold sundials. Located approximately 3m east of the pillar is a low sandstone block. The pillar was erected in 1656 to commemorate the last parting of Lady Anne Clifford and her mother. The stone block, known as the Dolestone, is an alms table upon which the Lady Anne Clifford laid an annual offering to the poor in memory of her mother. The manner and timing of the annuity are detailed on the inscription on the pillar. The pillar and the alms table are both listed buildings Grade II.

Source: Historic England

Reasons for Scheduling

The Countess’ Pillar 300m west of Lightwater Bridge is very well-preserved and represents a unique commemorative marker erected by an important historical figure. The two constituent elements of the monument provide group value with the alms table being mentioned in the inscription on the pillar. The whole is of undoubted historical importance and the monument provides insight into the importance of the nobility in the earlier post-medieval period and their role in establishing landmarks and commemorative monuments.

Source: Historic England

Sources

Other
PastScape Monument No:- 11999

Source: Historic England