Bwlch Glas Mine
Tal-y-bont, Ceulanymaesmawr, Ceredigion, Wales, UK
Key Information
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Bwlch Glas Mine is located in Tal-y-bont, Ceulanymaesmawr, Ceredigion, Wales, UK, in a rural area known for its scenic beauty.
It is famous for pyromorphite, with other minerals like wulfenite and cerussite also found, set in Ordovician and Silurian sedimentary rocks.
The mine operated from 1882 to 1916, producing significant lead and zinc ore, and was closed by 1923.
Tal-y-bont has a rich Welsh culture, with traditional pubs and community events, and the area has a temperate maritime climate with a focus on sustainability.
Location and Geography
The Bwlch Glas Mine is nestled in Tal-y-bont, within the Ceulanymaesmawr community in Ceredigion, Wales, UK. This rural area is part of western Wales, known for its stunning coastal landscapes and historic sites. Nearby towns include Capel Bangor, Bow Street, Borth, Aberdyfi, and Machynlleth, offering a glimpse into the region's charm. For mineral enthusiasts, nearby mines like Eaglebrook Mine and Hafan Mine add to the area's allure.
Minerals and Geology
The mine is renowned for its pyromorphite, appearing as vibrant grass green crystals up to 5mm, often forming drusy crusts. Other notable finds include wulfenite, cerussite, caledonite, and susannite, alongside lead and zinc ores like galena and sphalerite. Geologically, it lies within Ordovician and Silurian sedimentary rocks, specifically mudstones and sandstones, developed on two veins possibly linked to the Hafan fault.
Mining History
Operational from 1882 to 1916, the mine produced 1240 tons of lead ore and 99 tons of zinc ore, with a peak in 1910 yielding 154 tons of lead and 1250 ounces of silver, employing 135 underground and 169 surface workers. It was managed by the Scottish Cardigan Lead Mining Company Ltd. and closed by 1923, leaving behind a legacy of industrial activity.
Local Culture
Tal-y-bont, near the mine, is steeped in Welsh culture, featuring two traditional pubs, a Welsh-medium primary school, and an annual agricultural show. The village, twinned with Woodbridge, England, reflects a strong community spirit with historical ties to mining and woolen mills, enhancing its cultural richness.
Climate and Ecology
Ceredigion enjoys a temperate maritime climate, with mild winters and cool summers. The county, committed to sustainability, declared a climate emergency in 2020, aiming for net zero carbon by 2030, reflecting its dedication to preserving the natural environment.