Great Laxey Mine (Lady Isabella)

Home to the LARGEST working waterwheel in the world — the Lady Isabella (1854), 72 feet in diameter. The Great Laxey Mine was IoM's most productive mine, operating from at least the 13th century to 1929. It produced lead, zinc, copper, and SILVER. The mine shafts extend 2,000+ feet deep and miles of underground tunnels honeycomb the valley. The mine spoil heaps (waste dumps) are rich in mineral specimens. WHY COLLECT HERE: The spoil heaps contain specimens of galena (lead ore — heavy, metallic, cubic crystals), sphalerite (zinc — dark, resinous), chalcopyrite (copper — brassy yellow), pyrite ('fool's gold'), quartz (clear to milky crystals), and calcite. Some Laxey lead veins contain unusually HIGH URANIUM content in solid hydrocarbons — these are scientifically interesting but handle with care. The heritage site is accessible and the surrounding valley has exposed vein material in stream beds. The Manx Electric Railway stops right at the mine.