What documenary evidence is there for pre eighteenth century copper mining within the Tamar Valley? The earliest references that I have come across are early eighteenth century Bedford Estate leases held in the DRO.
Dines and (Ithink) Hamilton Jenkin both note that Virtuous Lady is reputed to have been worked in the 16th Century.
A more recent reference (Rippon, Claughton & Smart, 2009) notes "there is, however, good documentary evidence that some copper - bearing ores were being worked in the Tamar Valley by at least the first decade of the fourteenth century."
Can anyone elucidate?
Many thanks
Rick Stewart
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