Image Licensing : Wheal Grenville Mine, Camborne, Cornwall. 1911

EDITORS COMMENTS

This print from the Royal Cornwall Museum takes us back in time to 1911, capturing a general surface view of Wheal Grenville Mine in Camborne, Cornwall. The image showcases the impressive New Engine Shaft on Polgine Lode, standing tall against the rugged Cornish landscape. Renowned photographer John Charles Burrow skillfully captures the essence of this mining site, highlighting its historical significance. The photograph exudes an air of industry and hard work as we witness miners toiling away beneath their protective headgear. Their dedication is palpable even through the black and white lens of history. The mine's imposing structure rises above them, a testament to human ingenuity and determination. Cornwall has long been associated with mining, and this print serves as a poignant reminder of that rich heritage. It allows us to reflect upon the challenges faced by those who worked tirelessly underground in pursuit of precious minerals. Water plays a prominent role in this scene; it flows freely around the mine's entrance, reminding us both of nature's power and its crucial role within mining operations. As we admire this remarkable piece from our past, let us not forget that behind every photograph lies countless untold stories - tales of triumphs and tragedies that shaped communities and transformed landscapes forever. This print invites us to explore these narratives further while honoring those who dedicated their lives to Cornwall's mining legacy.