Saxon Hundredstone, Yeovil, Dorset

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Ancient stone with carved hollow stands proudly in a contemporary landscaped garden along Mudford Road, perched on the highest point in Yeovil, Dorset. For centuries, this stone served as the gathering place for local representatives, tasked with upholding justice and defending their territory as part of the tenth century Saxon division known as the Hundred. As late as the 19th century, moots continued to be held here, but ultimately ceased in 1843 when the last meeting took place. On that occasion, the members of the court gathered around the stone, poured a libation of wine into its hollow recess, and then retired to a local Yeovil tavern, where they adjourned according to ancient tradition. Today, the Hundredstone stands as an overlooked feature in the garden, forgotten by time.