Monument record 14979/3 - Leighton Moss and Minshull Moss

<1> Leah, MD; Wells, CE; Appleby, C; Huckerby, E, 1997, The Wetlands of Cheshire (North West Wetlands Survey 4), p.131-3 (Monograph). SCH3260.

Leighton Moss and Minshull Moss were investigated by the North West Wetlands project, an archaeological and paleoecological study of the varied wetlands of Cheshire, undertaken between 1993-95. They were two of at least five adjoining mosses (Warmingham, Coppenhall, Meybury's or Maplin's, Leighton and Minshull) which once formed one of the most extensive tracts of peatland in Cheshire, located to the north of Crewe. Virtually no trace of the peatland remains today, the only clue to its existence being placename evidence and a regular field pattern. Four townships shared this moss and could claim turbary rights. A large stone is said to have marked the boundary of the four townships.

Leighton Moss was the last of the five mosses to be enclosed in 1826 and it is probable that Minshull Moss was enclosed at the same time. Due to drainage and improvement for agriculture, and modern development these former wetlands have no paleoenvironmental potential.

<2> Ordnance Survey, 1871-1882, Ordnance Survey County Series (Epoch 1) 25 inch to 1 mile - Cheshire, SJ6958, 1876 (Maps and Plans). SCH2462.