Inscribed Stones

The Department's description

Exterior description and setting

A pair of inscribed cavetto moulded stones, one above the other and built into a wall flanking rear entrance of a much altered early 19thC house. The top one reads “ IA/MM/1626” and the bottom one “IA/ MM/ 1625”.

Historical information

The stones are thought to have been taken from a nearby castle. They also resemble marriage stones, a tradition for carving initials of a betrothed couple and the date of their union. This may not, however, be the case in this particular instance as the dates vary.

An historical photograph shows the house as a substantial three-storey/ three bay building with farmyard to rear. The house has since been truncated and refurbished and now retains only part of the original staircase (to first half-landing).

The first and second valuation books show the Mitchell family to be in occupation from the earlier 19th century onwards. The ‘M’ in the initial may therefore refer to this family.

Primary sources
1. First survey card dated 23rd November 1988.
2. Historic photograph belonging to owner.
3. First valuation book, 1837 (PRONI: VAL 1B/46, p.1).
4. Second valuation book (published 1862).

Criteria for listing: architectural interest

Not listed

Criteria for listing: historic interest

Not listed

Evaluation

A pair of inscribed stones now built into a rear wall of a much-altered house.