The Tregargus Valley is situated just north of St.Stephen in Brannel, Cornwall. These pictures illustrate the valley in June 2020.
In the late 19th century it was an industrial location with China Stone quarries and mills operating from around 1870. Some of these continued working right up until 1965.
The valley originally contained seven china stone mills; of which five have survived. The sites include Wheal Arthur China Clay Works, Trevear Mill with attached pan-kiln and Miller's cottage, and Big Wheel Mill with associated tramways and leats.
Mining has had a large impact on the growth of the area. St Stephen grew with the discovery by William Cookworthy of clay deposits in the surrounding area during the 18th century. Uranium was mined at South Terras Mine, a short distance from the village between 1870 and 1930.
