tarboat's photos with the keyword: harecastle

The Chatterley Iron Company was established in 1865 and soon developed three blast furnaces opposite the Ravensdale Forge near Harecastle on the Trent and Mersey Canal in North Staffordshire. A vertical blowing engine by Adamson of Manchester was erected in 1868 in this building. The venture was not very successful and went into voluntary liquidation in 1879. The company continued to trade under supervision for a few years before final winding up in 1889. Subsequently in the ownership of Chatterley Whitfield Collieries Ltd the last furnace was blown out in 1900. The empty blowing engine house stood derelict until the 1980's when it was demolished during the construction of a new road. Another fascinating relic lost to progress.

Spey and Chance 2 entering Harecastle Tunnel to chase through those who had entered a few minutes earlier. Nothing like the sound of an approaching Bolinder in an enclosed space to encourage a little haste. :-) The portal of the disused Brindley tunnel is behind the white railings on the left side.

Spey and Chance 2 burst out of Harecastle Tunnel at Kidsgrove on their way north. Had a great trip through Stoke today although the butty got stuck in Cockshute Lock until we wound in the sides a bit! In the background is the disused original tunnel designed by James Brindley.

The Chatterley Iron Company was established in 1865 and soon developed three blast furnaces opposite the Ravensdale Forge near Harecastle on the Trent and Mersey Canal in North Staffordshire. A vertical blowing engine by Adamson of Manchester was erected in 1868 in this building. The venture was not very successful and went into voluntary liquidation in 1879. The company continued to trade under supervision for a few years before final winding up in 1889. Subsequently in the ownership of Chatterley Whitfield Collieries Ltd the last furnace was blown out in 1900. The empty blowing engine house stood derelict until the 1980's when it was demolished during the construction of a new road. Another fascinating relic lost to progress.