Notes on information contributed by Mr J.S. Killip, Helmead, Crot e Quill, Laxey on 'Laxey Mine as I knew it sixty years ago', collected by Margaret Killip
Date(s): 1951
Scope & Content: This document was written by Mr J S Killip the son of a former mine captain and recalls the work of the mines during the 1880's. Sinking of shafts and the adit levels are mentioned and the provision for a "race" to be cut from the Glenroy river to Laxey river over the land at Baldhoon and Baljean. The Welsh shaft is mentioned with its Beam engine. A reservoir was built lower down the valley. The men's working conditions are described. The men were mainly industrious, sober and God-fearing devout Church and Chapel worshippers. Tradesmen are mentioned. Playing Cammag; The Washing Floors are described; The crushed metal; Shipping - steam cargo boats bringing coal to Laxey and taking cargoes of ore to the smelting works at Swansea. Pay Day was the first Saturday of each month - a holiday. Social life - Friendly Societies were common together with tea meetings and a mutual improvement society which held instructive lectures and readings etc. Communication with Douglas was difficult until 1894 or 5 when the Manx Electric Line was opened.
Language: English
Extent: 7 pages
Item name: typescript
Collection: Manuscript Archive
Level: ITEM
ID number: FLS K.J.S./A