Archaeological Investigations at South Quay, Hayle

Archaeological work took place on South Quay, Hayle between 2010 and 2014. The development of Hayle started in the mid-18th century and it soon became a significant industrial centre. South Quay was constructed in 1818 by the locally influential and entrepreneurial Harvey family and was located adjacent to their large iron foundry. Activity on the quay evolved with, from the 1830s, the Harvey family becoming involved in ship building. This took place on newly constructed slipways connected to the quay. By the 1840s, wharfs, many other structures and buildings were established on the quay, all linked by rail tracks enabling products to be efficiently sent across the trading world.

The decline in South Quay from c1860 was slow and little substantial new development occurred except for a short-lived industrial redevelopment of part of the site in the 1970s. The quay later became derelict and there was substantial fly tipping. Archaeological examination found that under the ground surface there were large areas where fragile historic remains and artefacts had survived such as 19th century rail tracks, chains and anchors. Other archaeological work undertaken included recording features such as the walls of the quay, which had been modified over time. Walls that had been part of the docks and slipways were exposed. Additionally, the former Carnsew Channel leading off South Quay was revealed and remains of its sluice gates, which was attached to the quay, were drawn. An ‘Accommodation’ bridge had been constructed within the quay during WWII to aid the assembly of ‘Rhinos’ in preparaton of D-Day in 1944, and was examined before it was removed.

This publication has extensively used cartographic, photographic and documentary records to place the archaeological and structural features uncovered into context. The importance of these industrial remains has been shown by the fact that the former port of Hayle, including South Quay, had gained World Heritage status.