The Plague Monument

Today I thought I should get out of my comfort zone and contribute to BobsBlips' WideAngleWednesday on the subject of 'Built Environment'. 

This pillar, made of Portland stone, commemorates all the people of Winchester who died in the plague of 1666. It was originally erected to mark the spot where money was exchanged for goods; people brought their goods to this point outside the West Gate and waited (at a distance) for the townsfolk to bring out their payment which was left in a bowl of vinegar to disinfect it. This was the last major outbreak of the plague (black death) in England. In London it killed between 70000-100000 people.  Interesting to remember in these covid days!

It was built in 1759 by The Society of Natives, on the site of a previous memorial, then rebuilt in1821.  They obviously had problems keeping it up.  And what is the mention of 'Aliens' on the plaque all about - does this mean it isn't 'human made', after all?  Oops!

Apart from that, this shot made the grade for me because I liked the rhythm of the different building styles behind.  And the colours.  Thanks so much to Steveng for hosting today.

Enjoy your Wednesday evening/Thursday morning  xx