On the subject of Mary Tavy’s conservation of industrial mining heritage: A few years ago when the World Heritage Bid for the Tamar Valley was underway, it had, I believe, a number of mining sites listed for stabilisation etc. My understandings are that no one from Mary Tavy showed any interest in the scheme, and it was over-looked. If I’ve made an error, I’m sure someone will correct me on the above statement.
Regarding the Engine House at Job’s Shaft of Wheal Betsy: The late Dr. A.K. Hamilton Jenkin was a leading figure in saving the engine-house from demolition by the Territorial Army. The TA had already blown up Brenton’s Stack (Chimney) with an enormous charge, so much, as to send masonry up to half a mile from the site damaging roof-tops etc. The National Trust, as we know, purchased the immediate land, and restored the Engine House to what we see today.
Regarding the other building remains – The Arsenic Works are left to nature with no conservation plan, along with the Miners’ Dry. Although, over the years there’s been a number of applications made to the Dartmoor National Park Authority (DNPA) Planning Committee regarding the Dry, but all have been thrown out. I understand a new owner has recently purchased the Dry – what their plans are I don’t know.
A few years ago Mary Tavy tried to start up a local History Group, but I understand that failed due to a power struggle over who would be who on the Committee. Recently I have contacted a number of residents of Mary Tavy who have a common interest in its mining past, and there’s talk about starting up a small group. Where it goes from there I don’t know, but, there’s every possibility that with the right people and dedication, the remaining mining structures could be saved…. Watch this space.
Will forward Head-gear photo later.
Regards Tin Miner