Harkers and Welsh Mining Connections
The following set of books reveal a lot about the Harker mining adventures in North Wales, across a stretch of some 80 years in the Nant Bwlch yr Heaern district of the Gwydyr Forest.Christopher Harker, Mining Adventurer, bought lease to mine lead at Gwydyr in North Wales and was working there during the 1770s.There is the death of a Christopher Harker 1866, and mention of James Harker and William Harker in 1867.There is a Harker Mine, plus a Johnnie Harker mine shaft.
The name Harker can be presently be found in Llandudno, Llanrwst, Dolwyddelen, Blaenau Ffestiniog and Anglesey, albeit attached to other surnames:Harker Jones, Harker Roberts, etc.
There are seven books in the series for the mines of the Gwydyr Forest; however, I have only recently discovered them and been scan reading.So far, have discovered Harker mentioned in the first three.The books give useful reference points for further research and, without doubt, indicate there are many documents (and possible signatures and other traceable addresses) related to the Harker mining leases during the 18th and 19th centuries.Details:
Mines of the Gwydyr Forest by John Bennett and Robert W. Vernon, published by Gwydyr Mines Publications, 7 St Johns Way, Cuddington, Cheshire, CW8 2LX :-
Part 1:Llanrwst Mine and its Neighbours, ISBN: 0-9514798-06, £4.95
Part 2: The Hafna Mine, Llanrwst and some early ventures in Gwydyr Nant, ISBN: 0-9514798-14, £6.25
Part 3:Parc Mine, Llanrwst and Adjacent Setts, ISBN: 0-9514798-22, £6.95
Hopefully, this will fill some gaps for you all.
NOEL HARKER ROBERTS
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Re: Harkers and Welsh Mining Connections
Tony Owen 7/15/02