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Tin mine between Camborne and Redruth, Cornwall, c1860
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Tin mine between Camborne and Redruth, Cornwall, c1860
Tin mine between Camborne and Redruth, Cornwall, c1860. Ore is being washed in the foreground, while in the background, Cornish steam engine houses powering mine pumps and raising machinery can be seen. Tin mining was practised in Cornwall since the Bronze Age, but reached its peak in the 19th century, when the county was one of the worlds leading producers. In the 20th century, the dicovery of extensive, more accessible reserves overseas began the demise of the industry. In the 1980s, the global price of tin collapsed, and by the end of the century the last commercial Cornish mine had closed
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Media ID 14863929
© Oxford Science Archive / Heritage-Images
Cornish Cornwall Engine House Metal Industry Mine Mining Oxford Science Archive Steam Steam Power Tin Mine
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures a scene from the heyday of tin mining in Cornwall during the 19th century. The image showcases a bustling tin mine located between Camborne and Redruth, two towns that were at the heart of this thriving industry. In the foreground, we witness workers diligently washing ore, while in the background, towering Cornish steam engine houses dominate the landscape. These impressive structures powered mine pumps and raised machinery essential for extracting precious tin. Cornwall's rich history of tin mining dates back to ancient times but reached its pinnacle during the 19th century when it became one of the world's leading producers. However, as time progressed, extensive reserves discovered overseas gradually led to a decline in Cornwall's industry. By the end of the 20th century, with plummeting global prices for tin and increased accessibility to foreign mines, Cornwall witnessed its last commercial mine closing its doors. This evocative engraving not only provides us with a glimpse into an important era in British industrial history but also serves as a reminder of human ingenuity and hard work that once thrived within these rugged landscapes. It immortalizes both men who dedicated their lives to this laborious occupation and magnificent steam-powered machinery that revolutionized mining practices during Victorian times. As we admire this colorful snapshot from yesteryears captured by an unknown creator, let us appreciate how far our world has come while cherishing our heritage rooted deep within these resilient workers' efforts.
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