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 Although mining for lead is no longer carried on in the Peak District the effects of the industry on the landscape are still very much in evidence. One famous relic is the Odin Mine crushing circle. It can be seen just below the north side of the road running west from Castleton where it ends amongst the landslipped hummocks below Mam Tor.
The circle consists of a cast iron track 37.5 cm. wide by 5.5 m. in diameter and a heavy crushing wheel 1.8 m. in diameter carved from gritstone and surrounded by a heavy cast iron rim. The wheel was supported by a horizontal beam pivoted on a stone bearing block in the centre of the circle. Ore was shovelled onto the track and crushed by the wheel as it was drawn around the circle by a horse. The crushed ore was then removed for further processing. The circle was erected in 1823 and cost about £40.
Some old mining sites have open access into tunnels and shafts. It is very dangerous to enter these unless properly equipped and accompanied by an experienced person. Luckily there are several show places where visits to the underground world of the lead miner can be made in safety. These include Speedwell Mine and Treak Cliff Cavern both to the west of Castleton and Great Masson Cavern adjacent to the top station of the cable car in Matlock Bath and the Peak District Mining Museum.
Read on for more mining remains.
More Pictures
Quarrying & Stone
Lead Mining
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