Old photograph of men by the Market Cross in Montrose, Scotland. The cross was the place around which market stalls would be arranged, and where merchants, Scots for shopkeepers, as well as wholesale traders, would gather to discuss business. It was also the spot where state and civic proclamations would be publicly read by the town crier. The cross was also the communal focal point of public events such as civic ceremonials, official rejoicings, and public shamings and punishments. Scottish emigrants to countries such as Canada and especially Australia took the idea of the mercat cross with them, and several cities in the New World have or once had them in the town centre.
All photographs are copyright of Sandy Stevenson, Tour Scotland, and may not be used without permission.
View the most recent Tour Scotland photographs.
No comments:
Post a Comment