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The Watlington White Mark, Oxfordshire
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The Watlington White Mark, Oxfordshire
The Watlington White Mark, Oxfordshire. The chalk scar was dug into Watlington Hill in 1764 to give the illusion that the town's church had a spire. Local squire Edward Horne designed the 82m shape so it appeared above the parish church of St Leonard when viewed from his house. Date: circa 1910s
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Media ID 32231802
© Mary Evans / Grenville Collins Postcard Collection
1764 Area Chalk Folly Horne Illusion Leonard Mark Novelty Outstanding Oxfordshire Parish Scar Spire Squire Towns Visual Aonb Chilterns
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This print captures the unique and intriguing Watlington White Mark in Oxfordshire, a chalk scar created in 1764 to create a visual illusion of a spire on the town's church. Designed by local squire Edward Horne, this 82m shape was strategically placed on Watlington Hill to appear above the parish church of St Leonard when viewed from his house.
The novelty folly has been a point of interest for visitors for centuries, with its clever design fooling many into believing that the town actually had a towering spire. This postcard from the early 1910s showcases the outstanding natural beauty of the Chilterns area, where this remarkable landmark can be found.
As you gaze upon this historic image, you can't help but marvel at how such a simple yet ingenious idea could create such an impressive optical illusion. The Watlington White Mark stands as a testament to human creativity and innovation, blending seamlessly with its picturesque surroundings in Oxfordshire.
Step back in time and imagine yourself standing in Edward Horne's garden, admiring this stunning view that he carefully crafted over two centuries ago. It's moments like these that remind us of the magic and wonder that can be found in even the smallest details of our world.
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