• Because the beds of slate in Blaenau tilt steeply downwards into the ground the state is mined. Nevertheless, the word quarry is generally used rather than mine.
• Maenofferen was listed Grade II by Cadw as being the most complete example of a Blaenau quarry still using the original system of inclines and tramways.
• At the time of making the drawings, in 1999-2000, the quarry had closed. Since then deterioration is fast taking hold.
• Where “S” appears after the date and my initials on the drawings, this means “drawn on site”
• It is impossible to convey any real sense of the drama and menacing feel of this confined pit - it has to be experienced in reality.
• As far as I am aware there is no plan to save this wonderful monument to the great slate industry of Wales - nor any of the quarry structures in Blaenau, even though the whole area is a Cadw listed Landscape of Outstanding Historic Interest.
• The image below is a panoramic general view of Maenofferen Quarry - from above the incline into the mine. Note the cranked chimney to the former boiler house, which originally drove the winder. Latterly it was operated by electricity.
Clicking on the image will reveal a larger scrollable copy.
Clicking on the image will reveal a larger scrollable copy.
THE DRAWINGS
• Clicking on the thumbnail below will start a slide-
