[log in to unmask] wrote:

>  I know many places around the country where there are bits and
> pieces, and also have been told of same. I think the only exception to the
> rule is that if the area is in imminent threat (maybe a ruling by NAMHO could
> be set on this),

NAMHO did produce a cos of practice on removing artefacts which is repeated
below.

Removal of Artefacts
When you find artefacts in an abandoned mine, it is tempting to pick them up for
a closer look. This can have tragic consequences since many are so fragile that
mere handling will destroy them. It is also tempting to remove artefacts as
souvenirs. In the past, however, many have been lost or spread around the country
with no record of where they have come from. The following guidelines will help
you to decide how to treat any artefatcs you may come across.

GENERAL
1.   Unless the object is in danger of being damaged or lost, LEAVE IT IN SITU
for others to see. LOOK DON'T TOUCH.

2.   DON'T handle or remove an object until the proper recording work has been
done.

3.  a) Objects SHOULD be removed where the :-
    - only access to the mine is to be filled.
    - area is likely to be quarried.
    - mine is to be re-worked commercially.
    Denial of future access is NOT a reason. Someone else may be able to
re-negotiate access in the future.
  b) Objects MAY be removed where there is likely to be general future access and
there is a danger of damage.
  c) Objects SHOULD NOT be removed where the mine has closely controlled access
and exceptionally historic interest.

4.   Take your litter home with you - litter has to be really old before it
becomes interesting!

RECORDING
5.    Before you handle or remove an object :-
  a)  - take one or more photographs, preferably in colour, showing the item in
its location. Include a marked scale in the photograph of known size, eg caplamp
or coin.
  b)  - Make notes of what you can see at the location and nearby. If the mine is
properly surveyed, mark locations on the plan, otherwise draw a simple sketch
map.
  c)  - Remember to record examples of names, dates, tally marks, etc marked on
the wall by miners. Sketch them as accurately as possible and also take a
photograph.

6.    Prepare a written report on the mine, including any sketches, photographs
and plans. This should include a list of objects and their locations. Send copies
to :-
  a)  - mining history society covering that area.
  b)  - any museum interested in that area.

REMOVAL
7.    THINK AGAIN. Must the object be removed? Is the task one that could be
better done by someone with more knowledge and experience?

8.    Certain objects can be removed as souvenirs provided certain basic
infomration is included in the report :-
  a)  candles - intact or partially burnt, mould-made or dipped in wax/tallow,
length and thickness.
  b)  bottles - size, shape, type of stopper, glass colour, maker's name or date.

  c)  detonator/fuse tins - maker's name.

9.    Certain types of object should NEVER be removed except for display in a
museum :-
  a)  engines or heavy machinery.
  b)  windlasses, ore buckets or tubs.
  c)  large groups of tools or equipment.
  d)  newspapers, clothes or miners' personal belongings.
  e)  clay pipes (these can be dated very accurately).

10.    Learn how to handle and treat the objects. Be especially careful of wood,
leather, cloth, paper and unfired clay, which are fragile and must NOT be allowed
to dry out. If possible, seek professional guidance before removing them. Most
museums will provide advice or name a specialist.

11.    The removal of larger objects, eg engines, tubs, etc should only be
undertaken with the guidance of a mining engineer and with safety a priority. An
item which cannot be taken out entirely should be left underground. Someone else
may be better equipped than you.

12.    If you remove objects from a mine, KEEP THEM TOGETHER and don't divide
them amongst your friends. A set of tools, for example, is more interesting than
the individual items in isolation. Label everything with :-
  a)  mine name and grid reference.
  b)  original location in the mine.
  c)  date of removal.
  d)  name of person removing the object.

Adrian


--

Visit the following sites for references to all kinds of mining subjects

British Mining Database
http://www.ap.pwp.blueyonder.co.uk/bmd.htm

National Association of Mining History Organisations
http://www.ap.pwp.blueyonder.co.uk/namho.htm

Shropshire Mines Trust
http://www.users.globalnet.co.uk/~lizcolin/smt.htm

Bersham Colliery Trust
http://www.ap.pwp.blueyonder.co.uk/bct.htm