Andrew - there are only two sites (worth visiting) in Wigtownshire:
1. Mary Mine (aka Tonderghie mine), Whithorn NX 438350. A small copper mine
on a coastal vein. Last worked in 1840s but possibility of prehistoric
mining. Shafts, opencast and collapsed level. Not much to see but a superb
location. Can be approached on coastal path from Burrowhead Caravan Park or
from St Ninian's Cave.
2. Knockibae, New Luce (NX 188664). Small lead mine, worked in the 1780s
and again in the 1860s. Shafts, levels and some peculiar
openworks/prospection trenches. Can be approached by walking along the old
mine track from Barnshangan farm.
If you've got time to visit Kirkcudbrightshire there are some good sites
between Newton Stewart and Creetown. Would recommend Pibble Mine (NX
525607) which has the area's only Cornish engine house plus dressing floors,
crushing mill and large reservoir. Also worth a visit are Blackcraig (NX 445
645), Coldstream Burn (NX 387697) and Silver Rigg (NX 377729). The best site
of the lot is the Woodhead lead mine near Carsphairn (NX NX 531936); quite
some way outside Wigtownshire but worth the effort - remains of smelter,
school, miners' housing, dressing floors etc.
Descriptions of most of the mines in Foster-Smith's 'Non-Ferrous Mines of
South-West Scotland (Northern Cavern and Mines Soc No.2, 1967) and Wilson
and Flett's 'Lead, Zinc and Copper Ores of Scotland' Special Rept on Mineral
Resources of GB, 1921.
Hope this helps,
John
----- Original Message -----
From: "Andrew Hurrell" <[log in to unmask]>
To: <[log in to unmask]>
Sent: Saturday, November 27, 2004 11:04 AM
Subject: Interesting things in Dumfries & Galloway
> Dear List
>
> I am intending to spend a week or two in what was 'Wigtownshire' (south
west
> Dunfries & Galloway) soon. I have nothing planned and am likely to end up
on
> long walks.
>
> Can anybody tell me if there are any mining remains in that area
(especially
> any worth looking for). I know about Dalmellington/Waterside and
> Wenlockhead, but they are both much further North & North East of the area
I
> am visiting (and the visitor centres shut during the winter months).
>
> I also know about the Gem Rock Museum at Creetown - the Cafe is
recommended.
>
> Regards
>
> Andrew H
|