Volunteers needed to help conserve Dartmoor tin mining heritage

Come along on Tuesday 12 February to help Dartmoor National Park archaeologist Andy Crabb and the Forestry Commission carry out vital conservation work at the site of the last tin mine to be worked on Dartmoor. Using  bowsaws, loppers and small hand tools we will clear back vegetation around the old miners’ Dry at Golden Dagger Mine and mark off important archaeology ahead of planned forestry operations. The miners’ dry was constructed sometime between 1865 and 1905 to provide a modicum of comfort for the tin miners who toiled away, both above and below ground, at Golden Dagger Mine. The mine is believed to have been in existence by around 1806, although the name first appears around 1850. Work here finally halted around 1930.The structure is now ruinous. The building is sub divided into three rooms and there is evidence for fire places. One of the rooms may have served as a blacksmith’s shop. Within the other rooms the mine workers would have changed clothing, rested and possibly had their meals. The miners’ dry is one of a range of industrial buildings in the area that directly relate to the tin mine. Other buildings include the engine house and Dinah’s House, which encompassed the main office and accommodation for the miners. Other structures include wheel pits and dressing floors where the ore was processed. There will be a 1km/15 minute walk to the work site in Soussons Plantation. Please wear suitable clothes for a day on the moor and bring a picnic lunch and drink. For more details and to book your place please email info@moorthanmeetstheeye.org This volunteer task is part of the Moor than meets the eye Landscape Partnership which is helping people to learn about Dartmoor’s past and conserve it for future generations. For more information about the people and natural forces that have shaped Dartmoor visit www.dartmoorstory.org Supported by Historic England, Forestry Commission, Dartmoor National Park Authority, Moor than meets the eye and Heritage Lottery Fund. Meet at the car park opposite the Warren House Inn on Tuesday 12 February at 10.00 am. We plan to finish by 3 pm.