412 level at Dolcoath Mine, Camborne, 20th September 1893. The disaster, killing seven people, happened just a few weeks later as the timbers failed. Listen to the story on the audio cup.

This card was sent to the Trevorrow family for Martin Cowling, who was killed at Worvas Downs Mine, Lelant, in 1907, aged just 19 years old.

A pricker candle holder, which has a long spike to drive it into the wall. A hook and a ring can be used to insert the candle into. They were more secure than sticking candles down with clay.

Miners waiting for news after the disaster at Levant Mine, St Just in Penwith, on 21st October 1919. 31 Miners were killed.

Tallow dip miners’ candles. The candles would be stuck to hats, walls or holders with lumps of clay or wax. Tallow is animal fat, which makes the candles smell foul. They often sputtered, giving low, uneven light to work by.

A case to hold a miner’s candles. One half fits into the other to close.

Underground timbers and miners at the 406 level of Cook’s Kitchen Mine, Illogan, in 1893. They wear felt hats, tiny flames from candles can be seen in the darkness beyond.

A traditional type of miner’s hat from the 1800s. It is made of felt which is hardened by soaking its fibres with resin.