Milnholm Cross

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Just before you enter Newcastleton from the South there stands an eight-foot tall old grey stone cross with a carved sword, the initials A.A. and M.A. and the bent arm of the Clan crest – this signifies that you are now entering Armstrong country.
The A.A. is said to commemorate Alexander Armstrong, a Laird of Mangerton, whose ruins you can see by looking across the Liddel water to the right.
There’s a small spot of roadside parking and a plaque telling you about the Armstrong Clan as you make the few steps up to the monument which was erected in 1320.
Alexander Armstrong was the second Laird of Mangerton who was killed by de Soulis at a feast at Hermitage, who preceded the slaughter by putting a black bull’s head down on the table. Very Godfather.  It was said to be retribution for the Armstrongs helping The Bruce when he was on the run.
The Armstrongs are believed to be descendents of the Danish Viking Siward Beorn, Fairbairn of the Strong arm.

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