Waltham Cross from the Swans Inn Looking towards London
This cross is a fantastic example of the early activity of the society and reflects their dedication to protecting and preserving historical monuments. The watercolour illustration was a commission by the Society to Jacob Schnebbelie. In the image, we can see oak billboards and a low wall protecting the base of the monument, which were installed (and re-installed) through the efforts, campaigning, and funding of the Society to protect the monument from damage by passing carts. The cross was considered a valuable object to preserve due it being one of twelve monuments that marked the resting place of the funeral cortege of Queen Eleanor, wife of Edward I, during its journey back to London from Lincolnshire in 1290.