Go to the Main Scottish Cave and Mine Database Search Page

Montgomerieston

Montgomerieston, Guiltreehill, S of Dalrymple, Ayrshire.

Lead / Silver Workings (Quarry, Mine?).

GSG reference notes 'Guiltreehill Lead Mines' and descriptions elsewhere note workings both here and at the nearby Montgomerieston (Farm). The given coordinates above are for an old quarry from which galena has been extracted, as shown by a BGS specimen description that states: "Mineral vein with galena, calcite, etc. Cutting Lower Old Red Sandstone ashy sediment [Carrick Volcanic Formation]. Old quarry, beside burn, 1000 ft SSE of Montgomerieston. [NS 3703 1219]."

"Lead was found in the form of galena within baryte veins formerly worked near Montgomerieston in South Ayrshire prior to 1845 and the ore was stated to contain a high proportion of silver." [NERC]

"In the wacke at Guiltree-hill and Montgomerieston, veins of galena are found, of sufficient importance to have been at one time worked ; and they are said to have yielded a high percentage of silver." [NSA]

Alternative Names: Guiltreehill Lead Mines

Notes: 1st Ed. OS map notes 'Montgomerieston Quarry (Freestone)' at [NS 3640 1205]. A number of small whinstone quarries are noted around the local area.