18th to 19th century direction stone at Debden Road and Water Lane (EHER 40235)
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Summary
Although there had been statutory power from an early date for direction stones to be erected as an alternative to posts, this power seems to have been exercised nowhere in Essex but here.
Map
Location
| Grid reference | TL 5548 3411 (point) |
|---|---|
| Civil Parish | DEBDEN, UTTLESFORD, ESSEX |
Type and Period
Description
A unique monument. Although there had been statutory power from an early date for direction stones to be erected as an alternative to posts, this power seems to have been exercised nowhere in Essex but here. This stone is often mistaken for a milestone but the deliberate placing at crossroads seems to confirm the intention to make a direction stone.
The height is about 3ft; the two angles facing the principal road are deeply chamfered to within about 9 inches of the top and bottom. Inscription: Top: LONDON 39; chamfered face left CHELMSFORD 24 THAXTED 5 DUNMOW 11; chamfered face right: CAMBRIDGE 18 WALDEN 3 LINTON 9; base PARISH OF DEBDEN. <1>
It was extant in 2000. <2> <3>