Treat yourself to a wonderful walk with Nick Coy, geologist and historian, who has a vast knowledge of Avoca.

Nick will make connections between the area, rich in Copper ore, along with other elements present too. The detail of the regional geology and the fascinating mining heritage that developed here over centuries is intriguing. There were amazing feats of engineering in order to keep the warren of mine adits and shafts dry, to extract the ore and to move it by tram and train as well as a novel hydroelectric project to help generate power for water pumps.

There are tales of exploitation and of resilience as well as heart-rending stories of child labour and human endurance in this area. Connections between people from other mining areas such as Cornwall and Butte, Montana, through the sharing of knowledge and methods between miners, went on for many years.

We will walk uphill from the famous vale of Avoca and Nick will elucidate the past - from Roman times to when mining ceased in the 1980s - and he will look ahead to the future of this unique mining area.

Booklets from the series by the Mining Heritage Trust of Ireland will be available free to participants.
Please wear boots or stout shoes.
Parking is limited on site so please take care walking to the White Bridge

Address
White Bridge, Co. Wicklow