The March 2010 issue of Materials World, the monthly publication of the UK-based
Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining, carries the following request:
Who has the oldest mine map?
As part of ongoing work to create a national Mining Plans Portal, the British Geological
Survey (BGS) is asking if you have the oldest mine plan in Great Britain?
Despite a long history in the UK, the earliest detailed mine plans only date back to the
18th century. One on record is the Esgair-Hir lead and silver mine in Cardiganshire.
Richard Shaw, BGS Geologist, says "It is only since 1872 that mine owners have been
obliged to deposit plans of abandoned workings with the Mining Records Office. The
BGS is actively seeking information on mine plans for minerals other than coal, such as
lead and zinc, which may exist in private collections.
The Mining Plans Portal aims to make information about underground mining available
to the public and provide guidance on organisations that have more detailed information.
Website: www.bgs.ac.uk/nocomico
Forwarded by Tony Brewis
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