The Celia Fiennes Waymark

Image: © Graham Flint Taken: 6 May 2006

The Celia Fiennes Waymark, which has become known locally as 'The Monument', was unveiled on a very cold, wet and windy day in December 1998. It was commissioned to commemorate the 300th anniversary of the 'Great Journey' undertaken by a remarkable lady who, in the reign of William and Mary, travelled throughout Great Britain, riding side saddle and with only the minimum of company. Part of her route in 1698 brought her down the Old Coach Road to join the medieval road from Chester, which later became the A41, on her way to stay the night in Whitchurch. During all of her travellings, this was the only time in which she encountered highwaymen! Two rather shady characters followed her down the road from Tarporley, through Beeston, Bulkeley and Hampton Post and then into No Mans Heath itself. Fortunately it was market day in Whitchurch and, as Celia approached the town, the highwaymen backed off, deterred by the increasing crowd of market-goers. Look closely at the monument and you will see carvings of Celia herself, her horse, the highwaymen and the market people.

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