Monument record 2650/1 - Crystal Mine

<1> Wharmby, P, 1987, Survey of Abandoned Salt Mine Workings and Brine Shafts in Cheshire (Report). SCH7995.

Desk-based survey undertaken in 1987 to record the remains of Cheshire's salt industry comprising a gazeteer of sites and plans at 1:2500. Crystal Mine recorded as a bottom bed rock salt mine with three mine shafts sunk c 1850 (Crystal No.1, Crystal No.2, Crystal Water). Crystal No.1 and No.2 are recorded as filled with concrete and bricks in 1920.

<2> Ironbridge Gorge Museum Trust Archaeological Unit, 1993, Cheshire (Weaver Valley) Rolling Programme: Archaeological Site Investigation, R2055 (Client Report). SCH4208.

Shown as part of the New Zealand mine complex on the 1877 1st edition OS map. Slight evidence suggests it began working in 1850. Covered an area of 2.25 acres. Probably ceased working by 1888. In the 1st World War it was used to store picric acid explosive. A flood in 1920 destroyed these stores. The shafts were back filled in 1920.

The buildings were demolished over the years once the mine had ceased working by 1888. The engine house was pulled down in Feb 1925, it consisted of twin winding shafts. Today Crystal Cottage, a former mine cottage is standing, and a small brick shed, which most probably represents the former mine weighbridge.