Haxey Sundial
This sundial can be found in the grounds of St. Nicholas Church in Haxey.
It is a Grade II listed monument from the 18th Century with steps from the 20th Century.
The pillar is constructed from limestone and ashlar with the lower steps being made from concrete. The dial and gnomon are made from brass. There is a worn inscription on the dial which reads ‘Watch for ye know not the hour’, ‘William (illegible surname) vicar (illegible date)’ and ‘J. Bird of London’. It is most likely linked to Dr William Cotton who was vicar of this parish in 1754 to 1762. He left and was later made a Canon at Litchfield Cathedral. It is likely this was a parting gift from the vicar to the inhabitants of Haxey. The sundial was made by John Bird who was a precision instrument maker in London from about 1745. He also provided instruments to the Royal Greenwich Observatory meaning at the time this would have been prestige item.
