ABOUT THIS ARCHWAY
In the heart of St Anne's Park, near the enchanting Yew Circle, stands a weathered stone archway. A testament to the park's rich history and whimsical follies, this structure, constructed from large, rough-hewn stones, emanates a rustic charm. Its deliberate placement amidst the overgrown foliage invites exploration and adds to the park's captivating allure.
While the exact origins of this particular archway remain uncertain, the park's landscaping echoes the trends of the 19th century when rockeries and artificial rock formations, known as Pulhamite, were in vogue. Pulhamite, a versatile material invented by James Pulham, was used to create grottoes, caves, and various garden ornaments throughout the UK, including the waterfalls and rock garden in St. Anne's Park itself.
What is Pulhamite?
Pulhamite, a blend of Portland cement, sand, clinker, and sometimes crushed stone or shells, was mixed with water to form a slurry. This mixture could be poured into moulds or sculpted directly onto existing structures, mimicking the texture and colour of natural rock formations like sandstone, limestone, or even granite. Once hardened, Pulhamite became a durable, weather-resistant material perfect for creating fantastical landscape features.
Though the popularity of Pulhamite waned in the 20th century, its legacy endures in the whimsical landscapes it helped create. In St. Anne's Park, the stone archway stands as a tangible reminder of this innovative period in landscape design, inviting visitors to step back in time and appreciate the artistry and craftsmanship of the past.
While the exact origins of this particular archway remain uncertain, the park's landscaping echoes the trends of the 19th century when rockeries and artificial rock formations, known as Pulhamite, were in vogue. Pulhamite, a versatile material invented by James Pulham, was used to create grottoes, caves, and various garden ornaments throughout the UK, including the waterfalls and rock garden in St. Anne's Park itself.
What is Pulhamite?
Pulhamite, a blend of Portland cement, sand, clinker, and sometimes crushed stone or shells, was mixed with water to form a slurry. This mixture could be poured into moulds or sculpted directly onto existing structures, mimicking the texture and colour of natural rock formations like sandstone, limestone, or even granite. Once hardened, Pulhamite became a durable, weather-resistant material perfect for creating fantastical landscape features.
Though the popularity of Pulhamite waned in the 20th century, its legacy endures in the whimsical landscapes it helped create. In St. Anne's Park, the stone archway stands as a tangible reminder of this innovative period in landscape design, inviting visitors to step back in time and appreciate the artistry and craftsmanship of the past.
ABOUT THIS ARCHWAY