The Mercat Cross (Priddey)

Scottish Country Dance Instruction

1- 8 All dance RSh reels of 4 on sides
9-16 1s+2s also 3s+4s dance Men's Chain and end holding RH and LH to next Lady for...
17-24 All Balance-in-Line, keeping RH (dropping LH) rotate into lines across (Men side by side) all Balance-in-Line, drop LH and rotate into lines on sides and Balance-in-Line, drop LH and ½ turn RH to original places all facing in
25-32 1s+2s also 3s+4s dance ½ R&L, 1s+4s dance ½ R&L

(MINICRIB. Dance crib compiled by Charles Upton, Deeside Caledonian Society, and his successors)

Keith Rose's Crib Diagrams

The Mercat Cross (Priddey) - Full Size And Key To Symbols

Dance Information

A mercat cross is a historic structure commonly found in Scottish towns and cities, representing the right to hold markets or fairs. Typically situated in town centres or marketplaces, these crosses were key gathering points for trade, public announcements, and legal proclamations.

The design often features a tall, ornamented pillar on a raised platform. Many mercat crosses date back to medieval times, signifying the town's legal and commercial status, though some have been restored or replaced over the years. Today, they stand as important symbols of Scottish history and civic pride.

Despite the name, the typical mercat cross is not actually cruciform - variations range from a short pole stuck in the ground to the grand pillar rising out of the "cross house" in Edinburgh.

One Of The Finest Examples Of A Mercat Cross Is In Inverkeithing In Fife

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