Date not known - The Churchyard Cross
The original in the Library is inscribed with a reference to its restoration by Scott in 1846-8.
On the south side of the churchyard stand the remains of a small Churchyard Cross. It has a square stepped base and the octagonal shaft is set into the top step. The base of the shaft appears to be decorated with carvings. The shaft is slender and tapers towards the top where there is an incised line. The arms of the cross would have fitted in here but no longer exist.
For many years it was thought that this was a mediaeval preaching cross used by travelling friars and that perhaps it had been moved to the churchyard at a later date.
However, in 2003, the cross was renovated and, under the guidance of the church architect and English Heritage, it was carefully taken to pieces. The foundations were found to be mediaeval and almost definitely in their original position, so the cross had not been moved here from elsewhere. Further research revealed that there are very few preaching crosses left in England and none in Northamptonshire. Apparently stone crosses were raised in many churchyards throughout the land in the years before the Reformation. They were generally placed to the south-east of the south door so that all should see the cross on entering the church and be inspired with reverence for the service in which they were about to take part. The cross in Spratton churchyard is in this exact position. It also served as a station or stopping place for outdoor processions, particularly on Palm Sunday. After the palms had been distributed, the procession moved out of the church towards the cross with the choir singing anthems telling the biblical story of Palm Sunday. In the reign of Henry VIII's son, the Protestant Edward VI, the mediaeval altars in parish churches were removed together with lights, images and wall paintings. All the colourful vestments, sacred vessels and ornament were confiscated. It is perhaps when the head of the cross in Spratton churchyard was removed and smashed?
Acknowledged to Northamptonshire Central Library
Image Reference: 0733
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