It was the focal point of a television series which turned the national spotlight on a West High Street.
And yesterday thousands of people turned out for the launch of a �100,000 appeal to restore Shepton Mallet's Market Cross.
The 50ft high monument dates from 1500 and has been a silent witness to historic events, including the Duke of Monmouth's arrival in the Somerset town on a recruiting mission before the Battle of Sedgemoor in 1685.
But it is now in urgent need of repair and last night Glastonbury Festival organiser Michael Eavis helped launch the Save Our Cross appeal.
The launch was part of a celebration following the success of the BBC series Turn Back Time, which hooked millions of viewers as guest traders lived the life of shopkeepers down the ages.
Period costume was worn by some townsfolk and traders, and there was a host of other events beginning with a BBC History Hands-on workshop.
Shepton Prison's historic timeline, created by staff and inmates to celebrate the prison's 400th anniversary, was also on display, and the town's Christmas lights were switched on by carnival queen Tijana Johnson and one of the shopkeeper stars from the TV series.
Mr Eavis helped man the Save Our Cross stand and said he is investigating whether some of the stonemasons who have carried out work on affordable houses in Pilton and on the village hall may be able to help with the restoration.
"It is a landmark and a focal point for the town," he said.
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