Levant Mine and Beam Engine

Heritage Site in Cornwall

England

Levant Mine and Beam Engine

Levant Mine and Beam Engine, located in Cornwall, England, is a renowned heritage site that played a significant role in the region's mining industry. The site encompasses an impressive collection of buildings and machinery, showcasing the evolution of mining technology during the Industrial Revolution.

Originally established in the early 19th century, Levant Mine quickly became one of the most prosperous copper and tin mines in Cornwall. Its success was primarily attributed to the innovative beam engine that was installed in 1840. This engine, a prime example of Cornish mining technology, was used to pump water out of the mine, allowing miners to reach deeper levels and extract valuable minerals.

The beam engine at Levant Mine is one of the few working examples of its kind in the world. It is a colossal structure, standing over 50 feet high, and powered by a massive steam engine. The rhythmic motion of the engine's massive beams and rods is a mesmerizing sight, showcasing the ingenuity and engineering prowess of the past.

In addition to the beam engine, the site features several other notable buildings, including the count house, where the mine's accounts were kept, and the whim engine house, which housed the winding mechanism for transporting miners and materials. These buildings, with their distinctive architectural style and historical significance, provide visitors with a glimpse into the everyday workings of a thriving mine.

Levant Mine and Beam Engine is now a popular tourist attraction, managed by the National Trust. Visitors can explore the site, learn about the history of mining in Cornwall through informative displays, and even experience the beam engine in action during regular demonstrations. It is a captivating destination that offers a fascinating insight into Cornwall's industrial past.

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Levant Mine and Beam Engine Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 50.152/-5.686 or Grid Reference SW3634. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Botallack Mine

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Coastal views near Botallack

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Section of coastal path

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Botallack Head Trig Point Flush Bracket S8138

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OS Flush Bracket S7040 - Higher Boscaswell, St John's Church

Link

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Location of OS Flush Bracket S7040 - Higher Boscaswell, St John's Church

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Botallack - Crowns Mines

Looking down on the two ruined engine houses of Crowns Mines at Botallack, This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. <>More information to follow.

Rob Farrow

Chimneys of the Levant Mine

There are numerous chimneys dotted about the former Levant Mine workings. Some belonged to engine houses such as those required to pump water from the mine, to operate lifts for men, ponies and ore, while others were required for the smelting process or to retrieve minerals. For example, the left-most one seen here was for the 'calciner' where ores were heated to remove such useful minerals as arsenic. The most important elements to be recovered however were Tin and Copper, but this was generally extracted from the ore offsite.

Rob Farrow