Interpreting the social aspects of non-ferrous metal mining - The Cry of Tin.
Roger Gosling's recent posting on 'The Cry of Tin' illustrates an aspect of
the interpretation of the social aspects of non-ferrous metal mining which
was touched on briefly at a recent MINET planning meeting. A discussion
paper by John Fleet was circulated, suggesting that mining heritage
organisations, in particular the MINET partners, should pay greater
attention to the interpretation of social aspects through the medium of the
Arts. He focussed particular on developments in Cornwall, stating that
'mining communities have produced a rich and vibrant culture extending to a
variety of disciplines; among them music, writing and art'. A number of
examples are cited, including composers working within the Methodist
tradition over the last century and a half, and, more recently, the painting
of Peter Lanyon, plus the Kneehigh Theatre's production of 'The Riot'.
I must admit to being sceptical as to how much of this work was really
influenced by mining. Presentation of this kind is fine in an 'Arts'
environment but, if it is to be part of any interpretation of the social
aspects of non-ferrous metal mining, it must be approached with the same
attitude as other aspects of mining - the archaeology and technological
history, with all work based on well researched sources.
Perhaps consideration should be given to the establishment of best practice
in presenting material on the social aspects of mining in an accurate but
entertaining medium. To that end I would suggest that there is discussion
on the subject at the National Association of Mining History Organisations
(NAMHO) conference in Truro in July. Perhaps a preceded by a relevant
performance. Would any list member in contact with the conference
organisers please pass on the suggestion.
Peter
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Peter Claughton, Blaenpant Morfil, Rosebush, Clynderwen,
Pembrokeshire, Wales SA66 7RE.
Tel. 01437 532578; Fax. 01437 532921; Mobile 07831 427599
University of Exeter - Department of History
School of Historical, Political and Sociological Studies
E-mail: [log in to unmask]
Co-owner - mining-history e-mail discussion list.
See http://www.mailbase.ac.uk/lists/mining-history/ for details.
Mining History Pages - http://www.exeter.ac.uk/~pfclaugh/mhinf/
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