Snailbeach Lead Mine in Shropshire was once an important and highly productive lead mine. Started in Roman times it continued in operation right up to the mid 1950's with many of the mine buildings still standing today. The name "Snailbeach" has always intrigued me (especially as Shropshire is a landlocked county!) but I've never been able to find out it's origins. Perhaps the "beach" bit is derived from the Welsh "bach" meaning little or sometimes as a term of endearment, but I just don't know. If you have any suggestions I'd love to hear them.
This montage explores the rich colours and diverse textures of this site. Although quite now, each surface bears witness to busier times, which in many cases left its mark on what remains - a tangible link to our past.
