I’ve been following this topic with interest. I feel (that if I may add my two-
pence worth), people should be encouraging others to write articles. Hopefully
this may bring together the divide on the subject at present. Although the
original posting was a request for information, it somehow seems to have
transpired into a debate on whether people conduct their research and writing
in manner suitable for publication, albeit, in book form or an article for a local
journal, newsletter, etc.
My personal view on this matter is that a lot of information is available,
although sometimes differing in the various books, newspapers, Mining
Journals, etc on a certain mine. I have come across this on numerous
occasions whilst trying to write an article on a certain mine. Now I’m no writer,
and have never made out to be, as my writing lacks the basic skills learnt at
school (I had to learn again due to a serious car crash). But, at least I try,
which is more than can be said about of lot of people who have an interest in
mining history and hoard the information researched or obtained.
As I have time on my hands I try to spend it wisely researching Dartmoor’s tin
mining past. I visit local record offices, libraries, and view old newspapers
online. I am always willing to share any information on Devon mines that I may
have obtained. A number of Devon’s well-known mining writers have requested
information from me in the past, and have acknowledged me for it along with
the original source.
As Chairman of the Dartmoor Tinworking Research Group (DTRG) following
previous Chairmen like Dr. Tom Greeves, Owen Baker & Phil Newman, I feel in a
very privileged position to be following such academics. The DTRG have
published a number of reports on their surveys conducted along with the
Brimpts Tin Mine book, and Trail Guide. There are more publications in the
pipeline.
On the Mining History List there is at least one person whom I know works for
a well-known organisation. He will research each mine that he maybe, or has
worked on, in depth to obtain the correct information before publishing the
report. Those reports (the ones I’ve got, and seen) have never in my opinion
had any conflicting information.
Kindest regards Chris Kelland.
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