GILSLAND POSTCARDS

Old estate maps and early OS maps show that the various crossing-points on the Irthing have changed position and alternated between footbridges and stepping stones. The dynamic nature of the bed of the Irthing, and the violent spates which occur every winter mean that even the best-constructed stepping stones will not last for ever.

Gilsland Stepping Stones

Date posted: 12 May 1921

Stamp: One penny KGV

Postmark: Gilsland

NGR: NY63626710

Publisher:

My ref. 226

These stepping stones are still present in the same position, although the central ones are frequently dislodged by winter spates. The Victorians seem to have had a similar problem, judging by the re-inforcing blocks placed against two stones. The masonry towers were abutments for a footbridge, but they have now been entirely removed. The footpath in the foreground has been abandoned, perhaps due to erosion, and the stones are now approached by wonky steps.

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Gilsland Stepping Stones

Date posted: 26 March 1906

Stamp: Halfpenny KEVII

Postmark: Gilsland

NGR: NY63626710

Publisher: Private photo card

My ref. 045

Privately printed photographic cards are perhaps more likely to have been used soon after the photo was taken, although if this one was posted in March the dense foliage suggests it was taken in a previous summer. The women's styles are right for 1905.

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Lanercost Stepping Stones

Date posted: 13 October 1904

Stamp: Halfpenny KEVII dark green

Postmark: Maryport

NGR: NY6

Publisher: Lochinvar N&C

My ref. 137

If you have ever taken the footpath from the Priory towards the river, and found that it mysteriously ends at the bank, here is the reason. Despite the double wier structure and the posts supporting each stone there is now absolutely no trace of these stepping stones at this spot.

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Green Grove Stepping Stones

Date posted:

Stamp:

Postmark:

Reproduction: Photographic print

NGR: NY63476800

Publisher: From a stereo pair

My ref. 028

Green Grove cottages, now demolished, had their own home-made stepping stones, now replaced by the Poppingstone footbridge. There is now no trace of this structure. The photo probably dates from 1860-80.