Great Work Mine is situated on the metal rich saddle of land between the two outcrops of Godolphin Hill and Tregonning Hill. The original workings date from the early sixteenth century. According to John Leland in about 1538, the land was leased from Sir William Godolphin, the mineral lord. His family did very well out of the mines on their land and were, in their day, well respected throughout England as well as their native Cornwall. Other records show that the mine employed as many as 300 people in 1584, quite a shock when you visit the rather tranquil area today.


The presence of the single crow is enough to make anyone shiver. The image was darkened and a little more contrast was added. The crow was positioned on a third line to make it more of a prominent feature. The angle I chose to shoot at was low to incorporate some of the surrounding overgrown bushes. This emphasized the feeling of abandonment.