DougCornwall
15 years ago
Is anyone aware of any sources of pictures and information concerning this brickworks, particularly the kilns and the massive chimney and hopefully pictures which might show the observatory which was built on the top of the chimney? Many thanks.
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Graigfawr
15 years ago
"DougCornwall" wrote:

the observatory which was built on the top of the chimney



That's unusual! What's the story behind it?
spitfire
15 years ago
Frank Booker describes this works in his book:- Industrial Archaeology of the Tamar Valley.
There is no mention of any observatory
spitfire
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15 years ago
Found this link to brick yards in the area..
http://www.calstock-history.org.uk/brickworks.htm 

Was it actually called Hingston Downs Brickworks?
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DougCornwall
15 years ago
Brickworks is the only one on the downs, was called Calstock brickworks, made firebricks for boilers.
The office still stands (straight across the road from the Consols engine house) and is now converted from its original bungalow height to a dwelling. I got loads of pics of the original office.
Astronomical observatory was built on chimney after the brickworks closed. I understand from old wartime locals that it was tied up with spying in the war. From the works a good telescope can cover all the comings and going in Plymouth Sound. Quite a local todo at the time.
Chimney destroyed by lightning late 60's and kilns sold by farmer for building materials in early 70's.
I am hoping to find some pictures of the works and also any information that can enlarge on and verify the spy story.
Anyone know of anything? Thanks.
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