Boundary Stone At Sd 622 530

This is a sandstone boundary stone marking the historic boundary between Lancashire and Yorkshire, and now also the boundary between the Lancaster and Ribble Valley administrative districts. It dates to 1897. The stone is triangular in section with a sloping top and is situated at the foot of the hillslope adjacent to the southwest side of the highest point of a minor road connecting Lancaster and Clitheroe, within the Trough of Bowland. The top face is inscribed “BOUNDARY / 1897 / OF.” The left face is inscribed with two hands, each with a pointing finger, and the text “YORKSHIRE / TO/ WHITEWELL / 5 ¼ MILES / CLITHEROE / 12 ½ MILES.” The right face also features two hands with pointing fingers and the inscription “LANCASHIRE / TO / LANCASTER / 12 MILES / BAY HORSE / 10 MILES.” A small, flattened area near the base of the right face is inscribed "CASSON / EAST ROAD WORKS / LANCASTER," likely indicating the maker. The stone shows evidence of significant graffiti, and small holes near the base of both faces suggest the former presence of brass memorial plaques, which have since been removed. Historical records show that a "Grey Stone of Trough" was marked on an 1844 Ordnance Survey map at the point where the boundary crosses the road. The stone is notable for its clear inscriptions, unusual decorative elements depicting hands pointing towards locations, and for including the maker’s name and address.