2008
SD9724 : Stoodley Pike Monument
taken 17 years ago, near to Mankinholes, Calderdale, England
This is 1 of 17 images, with title Stoodley Pike Monument in this square

Stoodley Pike Monument
Walkers pose in front of the entrance to the Stoodley Pike Monument on New Year's Day 2008. The first monument was erected in 1814 following the defeat of Napoleon but collapsed on 18 February 1854 after a lightning strike. Strangely, on the very same day, 18 February 1854, the Russian Ambassador was withdrawn from London prior to the outbreak of the Crimean War. A second monument was erected at the end of the Crimean War in 1856, this time with a lightning conductor to avert any more disasters.
Visitors are able to climb up 39 steps to a balcony overlooking Calderdale. There is much graffiti around the base and balcony, people have carved and painted words for over 150 years.
Above the entrance to the monument is official carved stonework describing the history of the structure. Also carved above the door is a six pointed star or Masonic hexagram and below this carving is a Masonic set square and compass. I guess the local Masons lodge could have been responsible for the erection of the Pike.
Both monuments may well have been built to celebrate peace and were certainly paid for from public subscriptions. It seems apt that the CND ban the bomb sign is still visible above the balcony on this photo.
Visitors are able to climb up 39 steps to a balcony overlooking Calderdale. There is much graffiti around the base and balcony, people have carved and painted words for over 150 years.
Above the entrance to the monument is official carved stonework describing the history of the structure. Also carved above the door is a six pointed star or Masonic hexagram and below this carving is a Masonic set square and compass. I guess the local Masons lodge could have been responsible for the erection of the Pike.
Both monuments may well have been built to celebrate peace and were certainly paid for from public subscriptions. It seems apt that the CND ban the bomb sign is still visible above the balcony on this photo.