Stane Street

Heritage Site in Sussex

England

Stane Street

Memorial at the crash site of a Douglas Skytrain A close up of the memorial marking the crash site of a Douglas Skytrain, more commonly known as an American Dakota, which crashed in poor visibility on 11th February 1945, killing all 7 people on board. The plane had been returning to the UK from Europe on postal duties.

Having taken off from Paris to return to Wiltshire the plane was picked up by the radar at Tangmere airfield, noting that the plane was flying low over the South Downs, in low cloud and fog, on an East/West course. It was subsequently concluded that the pilot had been lost and thought that he was further south flying over the sea, presumably looking for a landmark on the coast to regain their position. Unfortunately, they were flying over a high point of the Downs and crashed on Sutton Down.

The loss of live is additionally marked by the Four Nations War Memorial in the Church nearby in Upwaltham. This also commemorates the loss of the 8 airmen who died when their Avro Lancaster crashed, almost exactly a year previously to the day, on the opposite side of the valley at Crown Tegleaze. — Memorial at the crash site of a Douglas Skytrain Credit: Chris Thomas-Atkin

Stane Street is an ancient Roman road located in Sussex, England. It is considered a significant heritage site due to its historical importance and well-preserved remnants. The road was constructed in the 1st century AD and connected the Roman towns of London (Londinium) and Chichester (Noviomagus Regnorum).

Stane Street runs in a straight line for approximately 56 miles, starting from the outskirts of London and ending in Chichester. The name "Stane Street" is derived from the Old English word "stān," meaning stone, as the road was constructed using large stones to provide a solid and durable surface.

The road played a crucial role in the Roman transportation network, facilitating the movement of troops, goods, and communication between important Roman settlements. It also served as a major trade route for merchants and traders.

Today, Stane Street is still visible in various places along its original route. Some sections have been incorporated into modern roads, while others have been preserved as footpaths or farm tracks. The road's path can be traced using aerial photography and archaeological surveys.

Visitors to Stane Street can experience a tangible connection to Roman Britain, walking in the footsteps of the ancient Romans. The road offers a glimpse into the past, showcasing the engineering skills and infrastructure of the Roman Empire. Stane Street stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Roman influence in Sussex and highlights the importance of preserving and studying our historical heritage.

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Stane Street Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 50.895/-0.642 or Grid Reference SU9511. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Memorial at the crash site of a Douglas Skytrain

A close up of the memorial marking the crash site of a Douglas Skytrain, more commonly known as an American Dakota, which crashed in poor visibility on 11th February 1945, killing all 7 people on board. The plane had been returning to the UK from Europe on postal duties. Having taken off from Paris to return to Wiltshire the plane was picked up by the radar at Tangmere airfield, noting that the plane was flying low over the South Downs, in low cloud and fog, on an East/West course. It was subsequently concluded that the pilot had been lost and thought that he was further south flying over the sea, presumably looking for a landmark on the coast to regain their position. Unfortunately, they were flying over a high point of the Downs and crashed on Sutton Down. The loss of live is additionally marked by the Four Nations War Memorial in the Church nearby in Upwaltham. This also commemorates the loss of the 8 airmen who died when their Avro Lancaster crashed, almost exactly a year previously to the day, on the opposite side of the valley at Crown Tegleaze.

Chris Thomas-Atkin