Penrhyn Du Mines

[1][2] The whole region can be called Penrhyn Du which literally means "black headland".

In 1637 Thomas Bushel was asked by Charles I[2] to inspect and report on the prospects for Welsh mining.

In his report of that year Bushel states: "...that at Pottherly [sic] there is a vein which has never been wrought though known about these twenty years..."[2] during the 18th century various pumping engine powered by water wheels and horses were installed and in the early part of 1779 an order was placed for a Boulton & Watt steam engine which was put to work on 26 August 1780.

[4] This appears to have been unsuccessful as in 1781, Thomas Pennant noted that there had been “...considerable adventurers for lead ore; and of late years attempts to drain the mines, by means of a fire engine: but the expences proved superior to the profits”.

[5] Ore was still be exported in 1789 but by November of that year it was indicated that: “the engine will soon be destined for a coalmine and unless [the situation is] altered for the best, this will take place in the spring” The main period of working was in the 19th century.