Image Licensing : Unloading coal from a barge on the Tresillian River, Tresillian, Cornwall. 1890s

EDITORS COMMENTS

This print takes us back to the late 1890s, capturing a significant moment in the industrial history of Tresillian, Cornwall. The lens of photographer Arthur William Jordan transports us to the banks of the picturesque Tresillian River, where an unloading operation is underway. In this snapshot frozen in time, we see a group of hardworking men and a young boy standing on a sturdy barge. Two small carts pulled by horses are positioned nearby – one already laden with coal while the other patiently awaits its turn. The scene exudes both efficiency and camaraderie as these individuals work together seamlessly to unload this vital resource. The image not only showcases the physical labor involved but also provides insight into daily life during this era. It offers glimpses into how communities relied on rivers for transportation and trade, highlighting their resilience and adaptability amidst Cornwall's changing landscape. Arthur William Jordan's keen eye captures every detail with precision, allowing viewers today to appreciate the historical significance embedded within this photograph. As we delve into our past through images like these preserved at Royal Cornwall Museum, we gain a deeper understanding of our heritage and recognize the tireless efforts that shaped our present-day society.