Dear Ian,
You have summed it up nicely really.
As to emigration. There were 'Agents' who went around seeking those who
might want to go, likewise some of the shipping Co.'s did the same. Miners of
course went to Australia (voluntarily!), to support gold mines, and later
Broken Hill and other mining areas. Many Cornish miners went to the South
African gold mines. We mustn't forget the many Irish who had to escape the
Potato Famine and gnrl. poverty, and the Highland Clearance - let alone many
others from all other areas.
There are records that show quite a few Cornish mines did voluntarily
contribute towards Poor Relief (& quite a few Co.'s and some mineral
owners/operators around the whole Country kept mines working just to keep employment
going). Yes, quite a few were indifferent, but there were a surprising
number who were charitable in their gnrl. approach.
Your early days sound interesting and varied... it is a pity others can't
experience such/similar these days since such experience is so valuable, but
this is virtually impossible now - things pleasure are far more important
these days to youngsters!
Regards, Bernard
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