Stone Heads
Stone head, Heaton Hall Farm
This head was found over 100 years ago at Heaton Hall Farm, found by the grandmother of the present owner, David Heywood. This head has a moustache and carved “hair”.
Typical of Northern England
Stone heads are common in Lancashire and Yorkshire, they vary in quality and are even carved into drains or even gateposts as can be seen in the entrance to Rochdale museum.
Dating of these heads is problematic, as is their interpretation. “Celtic” survival, superstition or just someone’s hobby, take your pick.
Where to see them
Rochdale and Whitworth museum have a variety of stone heads, you can even buy replicas in Rochdale.
Here is one from Chethams Library in Manchester.
Head on display at Chethams
Where to see them
Many local museums have some stone heads, some on display some in store. Here are some with heads on display.
Heads on gate posts at Touchstones
Buildings
Many stone heads are carved into buildings and there is even one carved in the tower of Prestwich Parish Church.
Though not of stone, there is a head carved into a beam in the Old Grammar School in Middleton.
Under Construction!
