Here stands Preston Cross. What stories could this stone structure tell if it could speak?
Preston Cross is the only surviving mercat cross of its kind on its original site in Scotland. Many say that Preston Cross is the finest mercat cross in the country.
Let’s step back in time to the early 1600s. This area around Preston Tower was the town of Preston. Preston was separate from Prestonpans. Preston was also more important. In 1617, the Hamiltons of Preston received a charter. They could hold a weekly market and an annual fair.
Imagine the excitement of St Jerome’s Fair. It took place every October. It was the social highlight. People came from all around. A mercat cross was a must for a market town. It symbolized the right to hold markets. It also served as a focal point for town life.
The records of Preston Cross’s construction are lost. They were lost when Preston Tower burned in 1650. But it was likely built soon after 1617. Preston Cross was one of five similar crosses built in Scotland in the 1600s. Edinburgh, Perth, and Dundee’s crosses were destroyed or replaced. Aberdeen’s cross was moved. That makes Preston Cross even more special.
Look closely at the cylindrical structure. It measures 14 feet in diameter and 12 feet in height. The central shaft rises to almost 30 feet. Notice the two doorways at the base. One has an iron grill. It leads to stone steps. These steps go to the platform. From here, proclamations were read. The other door is wooden. It leads to a small circular room. This room was the town prison. It replaced a cell in Preston Tower.
In 1636, the right to hold the fair passed to the Chapmen of the Lothians. These were travelling salesmen. In 1851, the Chapmen still issued invitations. They invited people to their ancient cross of Salt Preston. They held court there. Then they watched the villagers’ sports.
By the late 1800s, the area around Preston Cross was a market garden. The Chapmen of the Lothians no longer existed. But Preston Cross had been restored. This restoration ensured its survival.
Today, Historic Environment Scotland cares for Preston Cross. It stands as a reminder of Preston’s past. It is a symbol of Scottish market towns. Its history is etched in every stone. So take a moment to appreciate this unique treasure.