Cantlin Stone facts for kids
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The Cantlin Stone is a special rough stone about two feet wide. It has words carved into it that tell us about a man named William Cantlin. The stone marks the spot where he died. It also says he was buried at a place called Bettws. A cross stands next to the stone. This important landmark is very close to the border between Wales and England.
The Mystery of the Cantlin Stone
The Story of William Cantlin
The Cantlin Stone was placed on a hill to remember a traveling salesman. His name was William Cantlin, though it was originally Cantrell. He died mysteriously on the hill in January 1691. Some stories say he was robbed and murdered. Other versions suggest he died from being too cold (hypothermia) or from a heart attack.
After he died, two local parishes argued about who should bury him. These were Bettws-y-Crwyn parish and Kerry parish. In the end, Bettws buried him. They also claimed the land where he lay.
Over time, the name Cantrell changed to Cantlin. People say "Cantrell" might have come from "Can't and Tell." This was because the parish did not want to bury a man without a known name. This story has been told by people in the area for many generations.
The Cross and Its History
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In 1858, a man named Beriah Botfield put up a new cross. He was a Member of Parliament (M.P.) for Ludlow. This cross was made of limestone and stood next to the original stone. It was built to honor the traveling salesman.
Sadly, this cross fell down in 1970. It lay broken in pieces for many years. Then, in 2000, money was given to build a new cross. This money came from the South Shropshire District Council.
A new cross was carved by Jonathan Bower Protheroe. It was made from a type of stone called Yorkstone. The broken pieces of the old cross were placed at the church in Bettws-y-Crwyn. They lie over what people believe is the salesman's unmarked grave.
