In the annals of Cornish Mining one might consider this the only mine ever to turn its hand to wrecking.
The adjacent dollar cove has earned its coinage it is said from the wreck of the Spanish ship, San Salvador, lost in 1669 carrying a valuable cargo of silver coins. The headland here saw a mining trial about the year 1820 to recover this in a manner similar to working the alluvial moor deposits found throughout Wendron or St Austell using an iron shaft set down in the sand. Later a party from Liskeard made a renewed effort, building a breakwater and excavating in what was thought to be the wreck site.
Without success a final attempt was made using a steam engine to irrigate the sand in hope this would wash the dollars to within reach.
It is thought that upwards of £1,000 in old money was expended without return. If they call Wherry Mine "Oh so foolish", then what superlative is this??
Data coutesy of Ben Sum, Helston (12/5/18)
References:
Spargo, T, 1868, 'The Mines of Cornwall & Devon'