Group Of Three Chest Tombs 4 Metres North Of South Wall Of Quaker Burial Ground

This group consists of three chest tombs located 4 metres north of the south wall of the Quaker burial ground in Scotton. They date from the early to mid-18th century and were made for the Watkinson family. The tombs are constructed from gritstone, with each featuring a single moulded slab resting on a plinth made of four or more blocks. The central slab has a deeply cut inscription that reads: "HERE LIETH THE BO / DY OF GEORGE WAT / KINSON OF SCOT / TON SON OF WILL..." although the rest is illegible. At the time of resurvey, the group was overgrown and tilted due to a large tree growing between them.

George Watkinson took over Scotton Hall in 1653 and purchased the Chantry House and its lands in 1658. His son, William Watkinson, conveyed lands for the burial ground to the Quakers' Trustees in 1670. In 1928, the gravestones of William and Ann were recorded in the graveyard, with Ann being commemorated along with one or two children. This group of tombs holds considerable historical significance in the history of Scotton and is included for its group value.