Commemorative plaque 30747

This blue commemorative plaque records: Church Steps pre-1660, repaired 19th century. Possibly dating back to the 12th century, these steps have been the key route linking the town centre to the Church of St Chad for hundreds of years. Mourning relatives would climb these steps and scatter rue & rosemary in 'God's Acre' (St Chad's Churchyard) as an offering, to ease the spirits of their loved ones. Recorded plaque organisation: Rochdale Metropolitan Borough Council.

Church Steps, potentially dating back to the 12th century, have served as a vital link between the town center and St Chad's Church for centuries. These steps are historically significant for their role in local religious practices, including the tradition of mourners scattering rue and rosemary in God's Acre to honor the deceased.