More information : [NY 9351 6409] In the nave of Hexham Abbey Church are fragments of three pre-Conquest crosses:- (A) The "Acca" cross c. 740 A.D. [associated with Bishop Acca 709-732] reconstructed from three sections. (B) A fragment from the base of a similar cross; two other fragments from this cross, parts of the head and shaft, are in private possession [NY 96 SW 14], and in Durham Cathedral Library respectively. (C) The middle section of a cross-shaft bearing a representation of the Crucifixion. Two hog-backs, one of which Collingwood (3) dates 11th C., and two pillow-stones, are also in the Church. (1-3)
The Acca Cross is mounted on a modern plinth on the east side of the south transept. (B) and (C) above, stand by the north wall of the nave and on the west side of the south transept respectively. Other fragments of A.S. crosses are built into the wall at the west end of the nave. The hog back and pillow stones are displayed in niches in the north wall of the nave. [See Illustrations Card.] (4)
Full description of the 43 fragments of Anglian stonework in Hexham Church. They comprise:
Eleven cross fragments of the 8th and early 9th centuries, and the 10th-11th centuries; Three gravestones of the late 8th-11th centuries; Two grave slabs of early 10th-11th century date; A hogback of 950-99; Five friezes, and 6 balusters or friezes, of 675-99; Imposts or shafts of 675-724; Eight imposts or friezes of 675-899, A seat of 675-99; and columns of general Early Mediaeval date. (5) |