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Subterranean Canal in Speedwell Lead Mine, Castleton
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Subterranean Canal in Speedwell Lead Mine, Castleton
Subterranean Canal in Speedwell Lead Mine, Castleton, Derbyshire. Date: circa 1910s
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Media ID 32254098
© Mary Evans / Grenville Collins Postcard Collection
Canal Castleton Cavern Derbyshire Lead Mine Miner Miners Roof Speedwell Subterranean
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This evocative photograph captures the subterranean world of the Speedwell Lead Mine in Castleton, Derbyshire, circa 1910s. The image, taken by Grenville Collins, reveals a scene of quiet industry and determination as miners navigate the dimly lit, low-roofed adit, or underground passageway, using simple tools and lanterns. The subterranean canal, a crucial component of the mine's operation, winds its way through the cavern, reflecting the skill and ingenuity of those who worked in these conditions. The lead mine at Castleton, which dates back to the Roman period, was once a significant source of wealth and employment for the local community. The mine's complex network of adits and shafts extended for miles beneath the earth, with the Subterranean Canal serving as a vital means of transporting water and ore. The canal, which was fed from an external reservoir, was used to control the water level in the mine and to wash the ore to extract the valuable mineral. Despite the challenging conditions, the miners worked tirelessly to extract the lead ore, which was then transported to the surface for processing. The photograph offers a glimpse into the lives of these hardworking men, who spent long hours in the dark, damp confines of the mine, driven by the need to provide for their families and contribute to the local economy. The image also serves as a reminder of the rich mining heritage of the Peak District and the important role that lead mining played in the history of Castleton and Derbyshire. Today, visitors can explore the remains of the mine and gain a deeper appreciation for the lives of those who worked in the subterranean world of the Speedwell Lead Mine.
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