Map of Washington Village before construction of the Cross Keys public house. The area is quaint and rural, with only a few dwellings and buildings across the village. Though there were multiple collieries bordering the area at this time, it seems the boom did not filter to Washington at this time.
At this point, the Cross Keys is clearly visible on the Village Green. The map shows a gradual development of Washington as a substantial settlement. Housing is built on the west side of the village while creeping northwards also.
Map of Washington Village before construction of the Cross Keys public house. The area is quaint and rural, with only a few dwellings and buildings across the village. Though there were multiple collieries bordering the area at this time, it seems the boom did not filter to Washington at this time.
Name: The Cross Keys
Region: Washington
Date of Origin: Pre 1826
Site Type: Public House
Condition: Extant
Status: Site still The Cross Keys Pub
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Last Updated: 27/05/2020
Address: Spout Ln, Washington NE38 7AB
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https://www.twsitelines.info/SMR/9707
The first recorded evidence of this small public house can be seen in a document from the Washington Association for the Prosecution of Felons in 1826, where a recorded meeting took place the property of Proudlock Moses in the vicinity of the Cross Keys. He was presumably the owner, and can be seen here being a resident of Washington throughout his life, passing away in Chester-le-Street. The meeting was held due to sheep stealing in the area.
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Other than this fragment of history, it's hard to find more material for the life of the Cross Keys through the 19th and 20th centuries. There are many images featuring the Cross Keys as a centrepiece of Washington life through the 20th century, but little is known about this important meeting place in the village. It was clearly important due to its central location, and a staple of the area.
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