NUMBER 306

BENCHMARKS continued

You wait for ages for a giant of a 'mark to come along; and then two come together. This one is also in Carrickmacross, on Main Street and just across the laneway from the building that now contains the library. It is more narrow and tall than its colleague on Bridewell Lane, so perhaps it was carved by a different hand, but it is probably from the same period.

Below: The other giant of a 'mark.

Above: Main Street, Carrickmacross looking towards the courthouse with part of the 'mark just visible at bottom right. In an attempt to include as much of the scene as possible while avoiding being struck by a car, unfortunately Benchmarker failed to include all of the 'mark in this picture. Excuses, excuses.

NUMBER 305

BENCHMARKS continued

This giant of a benchmark is on a disused building (perhaps the former 'bridewell') on the shorter section of Bridewell Lane that links with Parnell Street in Carrickmacross, County Monaghan. For its size alone it truly is a beauty. It is at a significant height above the ground too; perhaps 4 or 5 ft.

Below: The giant of a 'mark.

Above: The shorter section of Bridewell Lane with the 'mark on the corner of the building at left. It is well up the wall, in line with the base of the bricked-up window.

NUMBER 85

BENCHMARKS continued

“From Carrickmacross to Crossmaglen

There are more rogues than honest men.”

If there was any truth in that old rhyme then the Court House in Carrickmacross must have been a busy spot. However that was far from the case when Benchmarker came calling. The place was locked shut, including the grounds, and it was necessary to poke a long lens through the bars of the railings to capture this 'mark on the front right hand side of the building.

Below: The 'mark on Carrickmacross Court House.

Above: The Court House with the 'mark visible through the bars of the gate at right.