Staddle stones, the term “Staddle” derives from the Old English word “Stathol,” which translates to ‘foundation’ or ‘base.’
With their unique and functional design, have a rich history that reflects agricultural practices, architectural trends, and societal norms of past centuries, particularly in Europe.
Staddle stones, once essential in supporting grain stores and hay ricks, saw a decline in their traditional use during the 19th century due to shifts in agricultural practices and the utilization of farm buildings. However, historical photographs indicate that these stones continued to prop up structures well into the 20th century.
Contents
The design of staddle stones, much like hay carts, varies distinctly among counties and regions, each shaped from stone local to the area. In the Cotswolds, for instance, the quintessential staddle stone often features a four-sided base topped with a circular cap.
In contrast, a conical base is typically indicative of a Hampshire origin. There are even instances of square caps crafted from red sandstone, specifically in the Monmouthshire area.
Read More: Pest Houses in England that are Still Standing Today
These regional nuances highlight the diversity and cultural richness embedded in the historical use of staddle stones.
Purpose and Design
The mushroom-shaped design of staddle stones is no accident. It’s a functional form developed out of necessity. The stones’ cap, often rounded or conical, was specifically shaped to discourage rodents and other pests.
These caps created an overhang that prevented creatures from climbing along the stones and accessing the granary’s contents. This was vital not just for preserving food supplies but also for preventing the spread of diseases that rodents could carry.
Read More: Watermills, Owned by the Lord, a Licence to Print Money
The elevation provided by these stones was also crucial for combating moisture. Before modern advancements, one of the biggest threats to stored harvests was mold caused by damp conditions.
By lifting the granaries off the ground, staddle stones allowed air to circulate beneath, keeping the base of these structures dry and preventing decay and fungal growth.
Hay Ricks
Staddle stones were also used as supports for hay ricks. As mentioned previously, their primary purpose was to keep granaries.
Hay ricks, or haystacks, were commonly found on farms, and they needed to be kept dry and away from rodents. The design of staddle stones, with their mushroom-like cap and raised base, was ideal for this. With wooden beams running from cap to cap, a rick could be built on top.
Read More: Do You Live Near One? Turnpike Roads & Cottages
The elevation ensured that the hay remained above ground level, reducing the likelihood of it getting damp or moldy, which could happen easily if it were left on the ground, especially during rainy seasons.
Historical Context
While staddle stones were most commonly used in the 1600s and 1700s, their origins likely date back to earlier times, possibly as far back as the medieval era.
This was a time when agriculture formed the backbone of society, and the majority of the population lived in rural areas. Harvests were not just food; they were currency, livelihood, and a measure of wealth. Protecting these resources was paramount.
The widespread use of staddle stones is a testament to the agrarian society’s ingenuity at the time. Farmers and landowners had to contend with natural adversities using the resources and knowledge available to them, leading to practical solutions like these stones.
Materials and Construction
The choice of materials for staddle stones often depended on local availability. The bases, which bore the weight of the structures, were typically made of sandstone or similar sedimentary rocks, which were often easier to shape and carve but still provided sturdy support.
The tops, however, required durability against the elements, leading to the use of harder stone like granite or basalt. This combination ensured both stability and longevity.
Read More: Medieval Mass Dials, Do You Know What They Are?
Interestingly, the stones’ components were generally not affixed to one another with mortar or cement. Instead, the technique relied on precise shaping and the weight of the granary itself to keep everything in place. This not only speaks to the craftsmanship of the era but also made it possible to reposition or replace the stones as needed.
Cultural Significance and Legacy
Today, staddle stones are valued more for their historical significance and aesthetic appeal than any practical application. They are remnants of a bygone era, representing the heritage and way of life of our ancestors. You’ll often find them in villages, on old farmsteads, or even in museums.
Additionally, they’re quite popular in landscaping and garden design for their rustic charm and historical value. In some regions, efforts are made to preserve old granaries along with their staddle stones as cultural heritage sites. These sites serve as a reminder of the challenges faced by past generations, adapting to and overcoming such challenges.
Staddle stones, while sharing a common purpose across regions, exhibit variations that often reflect local materials, construction techniques, and cultural influences.
Read More: The Mighty Medieval Tithe Barns
These variations can be observed in different parts of the United Kingdom and across other European countries where staddle stones were used. Here’s a closer look at some of these regional differences.
England
In different counties across England, variations in staddle stones can be observed. For instance, in areas like Hampshire and Berkshire, you might find staddle stones made from sarsen stone, a type of sandstone.
In contrast, regions like Kent and Sussex used local sandstone or ironstone. The shape of the stone’s base and top might also vary, with some being more rounded, square, or even octagonal. The height of staddle stones in England typically ranged from approximately 18 inches to over 30 inches, depending on the specific use and location.
Scotland
Similar to England, Scotland’s staddle stones were primarily constructed using locally available stone. In some regions, you might find granite being a common material due to its durability and resistance to weathering. Scottish staddle stones may also be slightly shorter and stockier compared to those found in southern England.
Wales
The Welsh versions are not vastly different from their English counterparts, but local materials were used, and there may be slight variations in design. Welsh staddle stones might also exhibit differences in the thickness of the base and the shape of the top.
France
Known as “pierre à champignon” (mushroom stones), the French variations of staddle stones can occasionally be found in the countryside, particularly in regions like Normandy. They served the same purpose but might exhibit stylistic differences, potentially influenced by local architectural styles.
Germany and Other Central European Countries
In these regions, the concept was similar, but the design could be quite different, reflecting local architectural traditions and available materials. For instance, the stones might not always have the characteristic “mushroom” shape but may still function to elevate granaries or storage huts.
The regional variations of staddle stones are a fascinating aspect of their history, showing how a fundamental idea was adapted to local conditions and cultural preferences. Despite the differences, the commonality lies in the ingenuity of using what was available to safeguard one of the most vital resources of the time: food.
How Heavy?!
Having picked up one of two of these, it feels like they weigh a ton! The weight of staddle stones can vary significantly depending on their size, shape, and the type of material used to make them. However, they were generally quite substantial, as they needed to support the weight of a granary or other structure and withstand environmental factors.
Read More: Fulling Mills, What Are They?
Typically, staddle stones are made of dense, heavy stone like sandstone, granite, or basalt. The base and the cap (the “mushroom” top) are often made of the same material.
Considering their function and the types of stone used, an individual staddle stone could weigh anywhere from around 45 kg (00 pounds) to over 227 kg (500 pounds) or more.
The base of a staddle stone might be heavier than the cap due to its larger size and volume. The cap, though smaller, is solid and dense, contributing significantly to the total weight.
Remember, these stones had to be heavy enough to support the structures they were holding up and prevent tipping or shifting, both of the stones themselves and the structures they supported. In many cases, the stones were shaped and set by hand, a testament to the craftsmanship and labour of the era. The substantial weight also made them stable in high winds and less likely to be moved by animals or humans.
