The humble trig point, a concrete pillar once crucial for mapping Britain's landscape, is now the subject of a unique preservation effort. The Twentieth Century Society (C20 Society) is campaigning to have these quirky landmarks recognized as historic sites, specifically the first and last trig points erected. This initiative highlights the importance of these structures beyond their utilitarian past, inviting us to appreciate their role in shaping our understanding of the countryside.
What makes trig points so intriguing is their dual nature. While they serve as navigational aids, their aesthetic appeal has also captured the hearts of outdoor enthusiasts. The C20 Society's bid to list these pillars as historic sites is a testament to their enduring significance, even as technology has rendered them less essential for mapping.
The trig point's design, a 4ft truncated square-based pyramid, was a product of the 1930s. Brigadier Martin Hotine envisioned it as a stable platform for theodolites, precision instruments used by survey teams to enhance mapping accuracy. These pillars, once numbering 6,500, have faced challenges over the decades. Approximately 1,000 have been lost, and the Ordnance Survey (OS) has discontinued maintenance for most of them.
The OS's decision to phase out maintenance for trig points in the 1990s reflects a shift in priorities. While some pillars remain well-maintained, others have fallen into disrepair or are considered dangerous. The C20 Society's application to Historic England to list the Cold Ashby and Thorny Gale trig points underscores the need to preserve these remnants of a bygone era.
The trig point's historical significance extends beyond its technical role. It represents a pivotal moment in Britain's mapping history, marking the birth of the Ordnance Survey National Grid. Catherine Croft, the charity's director, emphasizes the trig point's role in mapping a nation before the advent of GPS and mobile navigation apps. She celebrates the modest triumph of standing atop a trig point, a sentiment that resonates with many.
The trig point's dual function as a navigational aid and a cultural landmark is a fascinating aspect of its story. While some enthusiasts, known as 'trig-baggers', seek to collect and photograph these pillars, others appreciate their utility in navigation. Patrick Norris, a walking guide in Northumberland, highlights the trig points' importance in providing fixed reference points for navigation.
The C20 Society's initiative to recognize trig points as historic sites is a call to appreciate these structures for their historical and cultural value. It invites us to reflect on the evolution of mapping technology and the enduring appeal of these concrete pillars in the British countryside. As we navigate our modern world, the trig point serves as a reminder of the past's impact on our present.
