- This event has passed.
NATIONAL EXPLOSIVES WORKS (UPTON TOWANS HAYLE) 1888-1920, a talk by Peter Channon
November 7, 2018 @ 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm
£3
The National Explosives Works at Upton Towans, Hayle, was in operation between 1888 and 1920. This talk, by Peter Channon, will go into detail about the history of this amazing site which was created from scratch to develop and produce the then new nitro-based explosive ‘DYNAMITE’; a replacement for Gunpowder as used in mining. Utilizing a completely different ‘chemistry based’ process the site pioneered a safe way to produce DYNAMITE to an industrial scale, eventually contracting to HM Government for CORDITE production.
From a coastal wilderness it became a most efficient and safe production unit that employed hundreds of local people, and then had to expand for wartime needs. Although dismantled after WW1 the ‘earthworks’ and foundations are still with us so we can explore and roam to relive its short but exciting life and times.
Places are limited and booking is essential. Please call the Heritage Centre (01736 757683) between 11am and 4pm Tuesday-Friday and ask for Stephen or email enquiries@harveysfoundrytrust.org.uk.
If there is enough interest, another Dynamite walk can be undertaken on a suitable weekend.
