Description

The monument comprises the underground workings and associated surface remains of an abandoned lead mine.

The underground workings consist of abandoned shafts and levels and open-cast grooves. The associated surface remains include (a) masonry buildings, and (b) a large processing area, including water-wheel pit, ore crushing and dressing floors, spoil-heaps and washing floors.

The area to be scheduled is irregular in shape but is approximately 900m by 450m at its widest points, as marked in red on the accompanying map.

Source: Historic Environment Scotland

Statement of Scheduling

The monument is of national importance because it is one of only two well-preserved lead workings in this once extensive and important lead-mining area near Strontian. The Strontian mines achieved 'celebrity' status in 1791 with the identification of stronia (strontium monoxide) in the local mineral Strontianite.

The Fee Donald mine was among the first to be opened, in 1727. The lead-bearing deposits were worked intermittently thereafter until final closure in 1871. The excellent survival of the underground workings in their abandonned state and the existence of the large and complex area of surface workings (albeit largely from the last phase of mining activity) combine to make this a particularly important example for future study.

Source: Historic Environment Scotland

Sources

Bibliography

RCAHMS records the monument as NM86NE 1.

Source: Historic Environment Scotland