In the picturesque village of Hanham Abbots, along Castle Farm Road, lies a forgotten chapter in history - the mysterious cavern and mine detailed in George Elliott's Ledger. Chronicled on pages 206-207, this intriguing tale not only offers a glimpse into a hidden world beneath the surface but also serves as a stark warning to potential developers, particularly in light of South Gloucestershire Council's draft New Local Plan.
The Quarry's Origins
Perriman's Quarry, a once bustling hub near Castle Inn, played a pivotal role in 1806, extracting massive beds of stone. Positioned strategically on the opposite side of Twelve Acre Piece from Couch's Rank at Riverside, [Riverside Cottages] the quarry's expansive workings hold secrets that could impact future development plans.
The Creation of a Massive Cave
As quarrymen extracted stone from the rock face, an unexpected development took place - a large cave or cavern emerged, a man-made marvel with a gentle slope inward for horse-drawn stone removal. This cavern, concealed beneath the surface, now poses hidden dangers that developers must consider in their plans.
The Discovery
In 1957, George Elliott and companions stumbled upon the entrance of a tunnel within Perriman's Quarry. Armed with candles, they cautiously explored the tunnel, revealing chisel marks on the walls - a testament to the labour of workers long gone. The tunnel's destination remains unknown, raising questions about potential risks associated with construction.
The Hidden Cave and Its History
Adjacent to the tunnel, a deep rock face revealed a natural cavern, approximately 100 feet down. This cave, with a waterfall-fed pond, served practical purposes throughout history. During the 1921 drought, locals drew water from this cavern, and in the tumultuous times of the Blitz on Bristol in 1941-1942, it provided shelter for those seeking refuge.
Today, the larger cavern remains intact, presenting a unique set of challenges and dangers for anyone seeking to build upon this historic ground. Its roof, only 2-3 feet from the surface, adds an additional layer of complexity, emphasizing the need for caution and careful planning.
A Warning from the Past
The George Elliott collection includes a press cutting from 1957, emphasizing the dangers associated with the large cave. Left open and with only the mouth tipped over, this warning serves as a crucial reminder for developers about the potential risks and responsibilities tied to this piece of land.
In the heart of Hanham Abbots, as plans for development loom, Perriman's Quarry stands as both a historical gem and a cautionary tale. The hidden dangers beneath the surface, documented in George Elliott's Ledger, must not be overlooked.
Source: George Elliott Collection - Bristol Archives - Reference Number 42562
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