Solomons Plantation

Wood, Forest in Cornwall

England

Solomons Plantation

Wheal Josiah waste tip I believe this includes a partially collapsed railway tunnel - probably straight ahead behind the no entry sign. I was not really looking for this at the time or I would have peered a bit closer. This area shows mounds of presumed toxic waste with very little vegetation. Some structured masonry is seen to the right. — Wheal Josiah waste tip Credit: Chris Allen

Solomons Plantation, located in Cornwall, England, is a captivating woodland area known for its natural beauty and historical significance. Covering an expansive area, this plantation is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

The woodland is characterized by its dense and diverse vegetation, consisting primarily of mature oak trees, beech trees, and conifers. These towering trees provide a picturesque canopy, creating a tranquil and serene atmosphere. The forest floor is adorned with an array of wildflowers, ferns, and mosses, adding to the enchanting ambiance.

Solomons Plantation holds a significant place in Cornwall's history. It is believed to have been established during the medieval period as a source of timber for the local community. Over the centuries, the woodland has been managed sustainably, with periodic tree felling and replanting to ensure the continued growth and preservation of the forest.

Visitors to Solomons Plantation can explore its numerous walking trails, which meander through the woodland, offering breathtaking views and opportunities for wildlife spotting. The plantation is home to a variety of animal species, including deer, foxes, badgers, and a wide range of birdlife, making it a haven for wildlife enthusiasts.

In addition to its natural wonders, Solomons Plantation also boasts several picnic areas and rest spots, allowing visitors to relax and soak in the tranquil atmosphere. The plantation is open to the public year-round, making it an ideal destination for a leisurely stroll, a family outing, or a peaceful retreat in nature.

Overall, Solomons Plantation in Cornwall is a captivating woodland area that offers a harmonious blend of natural beauty and historical significance, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking a serene and enriching experience in the heart of nature.

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Solomons Plantation Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 50.535336/-4.2396715 or Grid Reference SX4173. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Wheal Josiah waste tip

I believe this includes a partially collapsed railway tunnel - probably straight ahead behind the no entry sign. I was not really looking for this at the time or I would have peered a bit closer. This area shows mounds of presumed toxic waste with very little vegetation. Some structured masonry is seen to the right.

Chris Allen

Wheal Anna Maria arsenic tailings

Toxic waste from arsenic mining and refining in the 1920s. Further along the path (behind the photographer) are the remains of the arsenic refining plant and associated chimney stack.

Chris Allen

Devon Great Consols Mine - former mine office

Now home to several display boards on the history of this mine that was an amalgamation of several older mines. The mine was last used for arsenic production and refining and there is a large arsenic calcining and milling plant nearby.

Chris Allen

Wheal Anna Maria Calciner Complex

Part of the Great Devon Consols mine complex. This was an arsenic calcining and milling plant. On the right is part of the labyrinth flue that was used to condense the arsenic out of the flue gases. It was then dug out for milling.

Chris Allen

Devon Great Consols - chimney

This is the chimney for the arsenic calcining plant at Wheal Anna Maria that was part of Devon Great Consols. The relative absence of vegetation is due to the contamination of the ground by toxic materials.

Chris Allen

Wheal Anna Maria Calciner Complex

Devon Great Consols latterly concentrated on mining and refining arsenic. This is part of the arsenic refining complex. On the right are the remains of two Brunton calciners that roasted the ore. They were connected by flues to the labyrinthine condensing flue on the left. The chimney is some distance away on the hillside. The complex also contains the remains of a second type of furnace and a mill for grinding the finished product. The explanatory display board is sadly faded but just about legible.

Chris Allen

Wheal Anna Maria calcining complex

Part of Devon Great Consols Mine from the period of arsenic production. This shows the labyrinth condensing flue where the arsenic condensed to be dug out later. At one time there was a second set of condensing flues for the gases from the final reverberatory furnace but these have now gone although the remains of the furnace are still to be seen.

Chris Allen

Wheal Anna Maria Calciner Complex

This is the base of reverberatory furnace that was used in the early 20th century for arsenic processing. The ore was crushed, roasted in the two Brunton calciners and then condensed and collected from a labyrinthine flue. This material was then roasted with a smokeless fuel in this furnace. The efflux from this furnace was condensed as 99.5% pure snow white arsenic trioxide. This was then milled and packed into barrels. It was mainly used as an insecticide.

Chris Allen

Wheal Anna Maria Calciner Complex - Brunton calciner

This complex dates from the early 20th century and was used for arsenic production from Devon Great Consols Mine. It apparently closed in 1925 after a life of around 5 years. The ore was crushed and roasted in two Brunton calciners (the other is partly seen on the left). The arsenic rich gases were conducted by the hot flue in the foreground to a labyrinth condensing flue where the arsenic was condensed and deposited to be dug out. It then went through a second stage of purification by roasting and condensing before being ground to a fine white powder. The arsenic trioxide that was produced is very toxic and was mainly used as an insecticide.

Chris Allen

Wheal Anna Maria Calciner Complex - mill

This arsenic processing complex was in use from about 1920 to 1925. The last stage was to mill 99.5% pure arsenic trioxide to a fine powder for packing into barrels. It was mainly used as an insecticide. This shows the millstones that are analogous to a flour mill. I do not know how long the timbers will continue to support them as it all looks a bit decayed.

Chris Allen

Wheal Anna Maria Calciner Complex

Part of Devon Great Consols Mine and used from about 1920 to 1925 for the production of finely ground arsenic trioxide. Bottom right is the edge of the reverberatory furnace that was used for the final refining to produce a white material that was then ground by the millstones on the left before packing into barrels. The arsenic was mainly used as an insecticide. Waste tips in the distance are largely devoid of vegetation due to the toxic nature of the waste.

Chris Allen

Wheal Anna Maria Calciner Complex

Part of Devon Great Consols Mine. This complex was used from about 1920 to 1925 for the production of arsenic trioxide, mainly for use as an insecticide.

Chris Allen

Wheal Anna Maria - trail marker and chimney

The position is a best guess. Wheal Anna Maria is part of grouping of mines into Devon Great Consols. The chimney is on the end of a long flue from the arsenic refining plant that was in use from about 1920 to 1925.

Chris Allen