John wrote:
>>but it would be unusual for a textile worker to also be employed as a miner.
I wouldn't be too sure about that. Historically miners have always been associated with small scale agriculture when work in the mines were slack - something always to 'fall back' on.
However, whilst this may be the case, my researches for Combe Martin in North Devon (lead/silver mines) is increasingly suggesting that miners also 'fell back' on carding, weaving, and the fulling processes (with their wives spinning) when mining was in recession.
The evidence is at this stage is patchy, but increasingly we are revealing more evidence that suggest this to be the case.
Watch this space!
Kindest regards,
Trevor
Visit http://www.histarc-hands.co.uk for the historical and archaeological North Devon Scene.
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