Staddle stones were originally used as supporting bases for granaries; the stones lifted the granaries above the ground. This was important as it protected the stored grain from vermin, it improved air circulation and it prevented water seepage. Staddle stones were also used for other food stores such as hay ricks, game larders and even bee hives. In the 17th and 18th centuries, these would have been very common throughout agricultural Britain.
The name ‘Staddle’ comes from the old English word, ‘Stathol’, meaning base or support.
There were different types of Staddle stones and there were many variations due to different regions of the country; the stones would have been carved from what was available in that area. And so this led to different styles and shapes. Apparently, Hampshire stones had a more conical base; Sussex stones had a more rounded top; Dorset and Cotswold stones had a more square base etc.
Most people know the traditional, mushroom shaped Staddle stone. As well as being used to raise certain types of buildings, they were also used to line driveways along entrances to properties as well as boundary stones.
Nowadays, vintage Staddle stones…the real things.. are very collectable…and very pricey! And the mossier, the better! They add interest to gardens and so have become a lovely garden feature to acquire.
And so…
As we were looking around Michael’s roadside shop, I noticed that he had a mushroom shaped Staddle stone near the entrance! It wasn’t vintage but it was a very good replica and a lovely shape. I remarked on it and he said, ‘ I sell those!’
Well…! Incredibly heavy it was…and with the help of his wheelbarrow, we ( as in Mr Snippets) managed to get it to the car! And then we had to repeat the process once we arrived home..not an easy feat as we have a steepish path and some steps to negotiate!
That done, thankfully, I knew more or less where it was to be sited.
I didn’t have ‘mushroom’ for it 🤣😂🤣😂 🍄🟫🍄🟫🍄🟫
And there was just the slight problem of an old tree stump being in the way! LOL! But my trusty husband soon dealt with that and ...way hay…!
All I need now is for it to become more weathered, and I’m sure that will happen soonish! We shall see!
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That looks really good, a focal point for your border. It will soon 'weather in'.
ReplyDeleteThey do look good in the garden, I have various clay tall chimneys in my flower beds, collected over the years, I almost got wooden carved mushrooms years ago but hubby was not keen.
ReplyDeleteOoh, that's lovely. No wonder you couldn't resist.
ReplyDelete