Lime Burning on the Gower Peninsula's Limestone Belt

Abstract

Abstract As part of the Glamorgan-Gwent Archaeological Trust's survey of the Gower peninsula, a study of disused lime kilns on the peninsula's limestone belt was initiated in 1984. At its commencement the project appeared to be straightforward, but it soon expanded into an extensive study as both calculation and documentary research revealed previously unexpected aspects. An intensive map search doubled the anticipated number of kiln sites and revealed the fact that the early nineteenth century kilns were located in the portion of the limestone belt where the greatest amount of Dolomite was present, thus suggesting that the early lime burners preferred Dolomite to other limestones. Then by analysing the lime burning process and using contemporary data, the process of lime kiln development during the nineteenth century became apparent, also the possible background to statements in contemporary accounts. In addition, analytical studies also revealed why the use of Dolomite for lime production could have bee...