Cross, Mottram in Longdendale


The Cross, Mottram in Longdendale is a Grade II* listed structure on Warhill, near St Michael and All Angels Church, in the village of Mottram in Longdendale within Tameside, Greater Manchester, England.

History

The cross is believed to be of medieval origin, serving as a focal point for religious and communal gatherings in the ancient parish of Mottram. Documentary evidence suggests that an "ancient cross" stood adjacent to the churchyard as early as the 18th century, noted by John Aikin in his 1795 description of the village.
The structure has undergone two notable phases of restoration during its long history. The first took place in 1760, when the work was likely intended to stabilise the original stonework and preserve the remnants of the medieval cross, ensuring its continued presence as a landmark in the village.
A second significant restoration occurred in 1897, marking the Diamond Jubilee of Queen Victoria. This commemorative effort reflected the Victorian era's interest in heritage and public monuments. The restoration not only repaired and enhanced the structure but also symbolised a connection between the village's medieval past and the national celebration of the monarch's sixty-year reign.
On 6 February 1986, the cross was designated a Grade II* listed building for its architectural and historic significance.

Description

The cross stands on a stepped circular ashlar plinth, which bears the inscription: "Restored in commemoration of the sixtieth year of the reign of Queen Victoria 1897." Rising from the base is a tapering octagonal shaft set on a moulded base and crowned with a foliated capital, showcasing elements of medieval design. At the summit of the shaft is a cubical sundial with three copper faces. The front face carries the Latin motto "hora pars vitae", while the rear face bears the inscription: "and watch and pray time hastes away when time is done eternity comes on."

Location and setting

The cross stands prominently on Warhill, adjacent to St Michael and All Angels Church, itself a Grade II* listed building dating from the late 15th century. The elevated position offers views over the Longdendale valley, historically a key route for packhorse traffic between Cheshire and Yorkshire.