Geevor Mine
Pendeen, St Just, Cornwall, England, UK
Key Information
Do not enter mining areas without proper authorization.
Geevor Mine is located in Pendeen, St Just, Cornwall, England, UK, on the Atlantic coast, part of the Penwith Peninsula, known for its mining history and scenic beauty.
It primarily produced tin (cassiterite) and copper, with other minerals like chalcopyrite and tourmaline, and closed in 1990 due to economic reasons.
The mine is in Carboniferous granite with Devonian rocks, with tin in hydrothermal veins, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Mining started in the late 18th century, operated from 1911 to 1990, and is now a museum showcasing Cornish mining culture.
The area has a strong mining culture, with local societies and events, and a temperate marine climate with coastal ecology.
Geographic Location
Geevor Mine sits on the rugged Atlantic coast in Pendeen, St Just, Cornwall, England, UK, part of the far west of the country. This location is within the Penwith Peninsula, renowned for its dramatic cliffs and rich mining history, making it a scenic and historically significant spot. It's near other notable sites like Pendeen Lighthouse and the South West Coast Path, offering a blend of natural beauty and industrial heritage.
Minerals Produced
The mine is famous for its tin, primarily cassiterite, and also produced copper, with additional minerals like chalcopyrite, chalcocite, and bornite. For crystal enthusiasts, the presence of tourmaline and quartz in the hydrothermal veins adds an unexpected layer of interest, showcasing the diversity of specimens available.
Geological Structure
Geologically, Geevor Mine is set in Carboniferous granite, surrounded by Devonian sedimentary and volcanic rocks. The tin and copper are found in northwest-to-southeast oriented veins, formed through hydrothermal processes, which is a fascinating insight into how these minerals were created deep underground.
Mining History
Mining at Geevor began in the late 18th century, with the site evolving through names like Wheal an Giver and North Levant Mine before becoming Geevor Tin Mine in 1911. It operated until 1990, producing 50,000 tons of black tin, but closed due to a drop in tin prices. Now, it's preserved as a museum and part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering a glimpse into Cornish mining life.
Local Culture and Characteristics
The local culture in St Just and Pendeen is deeply tied to mining, with community events and societies preserving Cornish traditions. The area is known for its scenic beauty, with the Atlantic coast and cliffs, and places like the North Inn reflect the historical mining community's social life, adding a cultural richness to your visit.
Climate and Ecology
The climate is a temperate marine west coast type, with warm summers and an average temperature of 12.5°C, receiving significant rainfall. The ecology features coastal cliffs, beaches, and heathlands, with the mining history impacting the landscape, now part of efforts to restore and preserve the natural environment.