Peak District Mines Historical Society

Magpie Mine, near Sheldon, is one of the most iconic lead mining sites in the Peak District with a long and rich history. This 19th century Cornish pumping engine house is prominent local landmark.
© John Barnatt
Daisy Knoll Underground Stone Quarry, Longnor, Staffordshire. Looking south-west along the largest extraction gallery, with the original roadway surface partly covered with stone blocks fallen from the roof
© Mat & Niki Adlam-Stiles

The Peak District National Park and the surrounding countryside was once mined extensively for lead, fluorspar, barytes and other minerals. Much of the now-familiar and naturalised landscape has been modified considerably by ancient miners, with hillocks, old lead veins, and old engine houses and mine buildings forming an integral part of the modern-day landscape. Across the area are many archaeological features relating to mining activities – some dating back several hundred years, some considerably more recent.

The Peak District Mines Historical Society exists to preserve these important industrial heritage sites, and to promote interest and understanding in mines, mining and minerals – and in the fascinating and varied mining history.

Members of the Society are active in exploration, surveying, and in archaeological and conservation work, as well as in historical and documentary research.  The results of this research, and much else, is published in the Society’s quarterly Newsletter in January, April, July and October, and in the biannual Bulletin, “Mining History” in April and October.  These publications are delivered free of charge to members, and to a number of important Libraries, Museums and Academic Establishments.

This archive entry was last updated on 07/04/2020. Information incorrect or out-of-date?
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