The York Ghost Signs Project

Cross

 

Address: 35 Micklegate, York, YO1 6LF (now on the doorstep of the Fancy Dance shop)

 

Description

A black and white mosaic declares “CROSS” across the doorstep of a shop.

 

 

History

John Cross Ltd. was once a thriving business with deep roots in York.

 

Established at 14 Micklegate, John Cross operated as a Provision Dealer from 1901, selling fruit, vegetables, lard, and other groceries.

 

By the 1950s, the street numbers had been altered, and the address of the Cross building was changed to 35 Micklegate.

 

In the photo, you can clearly see the number 35 next to the sign reading “John Cross LTD.”

 

In 1969, the business closed and the building was taken over by William Jackson – a wine and spirit merchant. 

 
 

1940s – John Cross’ provision dealer on the right                   Source: York Press

 

The business also expanded to 156 Walmgate sometime after 1913, which you can see in the photo below.

 

The Walmgate premises offered “Groceries, Lard, Provisions”, as proudly displayed on the sign above the shop window.

 

1950s – John Cross’ Walmgate premises on the left               Source: York Press

 

This building has since been demolished to make way for flats, but its legacy remains an indelible part of York’s commercial history.

 

Got thoughts or a story to share about this iconic sign? We’re all ears—drop your comments below and join the conversation!

 

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