Description

The monument comprises the remains of a medieval wayside cross, known as the Merkland Cross, together with the area of the purpose-built enclosure within which the cross is displayed. The cross was first scheduled in 1912, but is being re-scheduled now because no adequate documentation can be traced from the time of the original scheduling.

The Merkland Cross is a monolithic floriated wayside cross, standing 3m high, which was erected on a conspicuous site at the side of the Roman road that became the main route into Annandale. The sculpture is traditionally thought to be of 15th-century date. The floriated cross-head is an evolved form of the bracelet motif. It is said to commemorate the site of the violent death of a member of the Maxwell family.

The area proposed for scheduling comprises the remains described and the area of the purpose-built enclosure. The area proposed for scheduling is concurrent with that of the property in the care of Scottish Ministers. The area is circular in plan with a diameter of 6.36m, as marked in red on the accompanying map.

Source: Historic Environment Scotland

Sources

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Historic Environment Scotland Properties
Merkland Cross
https://www.historicenvironment.scot/visit-a-place/places/merkland-cross
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Source: Historic Environment Scotland