More information : [NZ 19768595] Clock Tower [T.1] (1) The Tower in OLDGATE goes by the name of CLOCK HOUSE and there is a tradition that the clock was brought from BOTHAL CASTLE. The bells were given c.1705. The lowest floor was used as a prison and correction house until the early 19th century(1) 'Cloake House' [Mentioned in a deed dated 28th March 1578] Scheduled Ancient Monument [(2) possibly applies] (2-4) The Clock Tower is a square stone building standing in the centre of the street called OLDGATE. The lower portion of the building has the appearance of considerable antiquity, in the form of small windows and much weathered stone. A plague on the east side states that it was repaired in 1769, referring probably to the upper part which is of considerably later date than the lower. The date of building of this tower was not ascertained during recording or field investigation, the earliest certain reference to it being in 1705 (T2(1)). The 'Cloake House' referred to in T2(2) could not be identified with the Clock Tower which is not show on W.HAYWARDE'S Map of Morpeth dated 1604. In view of the lack of definite evidence this Clock Tower has been attributed to possibly late 17th century. [See G.P attached to further card] (5) Condition unchanged. (6) 1418 OLD GATE The Town Steeple (Clock Tower) NZ 1985 4/57 11/8/50 I 2. C14, heightened C17 and in 1703; has been scheduled as an Ancient Monument. (7)
The Clock Tower. Grade II*. Belfry and clock tower; ground floor formerly used as lock-up. Probably early C17 re-using earlier masonry. Top floor added 1705. Squared stone. 3 storeys, 70ft high by 25ft square. East side has 2-leaf boarded door in Tudor-arched surround. 1st floor string. 1st floor has round-arched recess and above that an inscription recording repairs in 1760. Clock on second floor. On 3rd floor, round-headed louvred bell openings in roll- moulded surrounds with moulded impost blocks and keystones. Cornice and parapet with moulded coping. Small stone figures in C18 dress stand on the corners. West side has outside stone steps to 1st floor and the small cusped head of a C14 window. (8)
NZ 198 859. Bell tower or clock tower. Scheduled No ND/110. (9)
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