Cross-slab in Whitewell

This slab was recorded in 1980 as located inside the graveyard (WM033-008001-) to the S of a church (WM033-008----) (SMR File). This stone has been moved to the side of the road to the SSW of the graveyard (WM033-008001-) where it has been mounted on a stone base and is signposted as the 'De Profundis Stone'. According to the local history on the information panel beside the stone, this slab was used as a resting stone for the coffin before entering the graveyard. the slab consists of a thick tapering or partially broken limestone flag (H 0.94m; top Wth. 0.44m; T 0.14m) with a crudely incised cross with T shaped terminals can be seen. The cross has been incised into the surface of the slab and is located towards the top of the slab. The top of the slab is wider than the base. The dating of this slab is uncertain, however it appears to be pre-1700 in date (SMR File). Compiled by : Caimin O'Brien Date of upload: 04 July 2013

Probably dating to the early medieval period, this cross-slab may have originally marked a Christian burial or served as a waymarker. Its relocation from the graveyard suggests it was repurposed or preserved as a local historical feature, though specific folklore or use is not recorded.