> I have just seen a photo of a medieval (?) carved figure described
> as 'figure of a female ore dresser' in the AA Ordance Survey
> Leisure Guide of the Peak District. She appears to be holding a
> brush in each hand (different sizes). There are no other details
> about the figure or where it is. Can any of our Northern (or other)
> colleagues help me out on this one? Many thanks.
>
>
Almost certain to be the stone-carved Anglo-Saxon miner in Wirksworth
Church. He is carrying his pick and 'wisket', a small wooden basket
used for transporting ore or waste from the forefield to a haulage
shaft. In the late 17th cent. they cost 2d ea at the Dovegang mines
and 4d ea at Peak Hole Sough in 1778. Often carried by boys they were
in use for a considerable period of time. (Rieuwerts, Gloss. Derby.
Lead Min. Terms. 1998).
If memory serves me correctly the carving was actually found on
Bonsall Moor, but someone is bound to shoot me down on that, bear in
mind though I'm an old man and memory is not too hot these days! Not
quite as old as the Anglo-Saxon miner though!
P. Challis
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