Kent Underground Research Group
KURG is an affiliated group of the KAS. We are mining historians – a unique blend of unlikely opposites. We are primarily archaeologists and carry out academic research into the history of underground features and associated industries. To do this, however, we must be practical and thus have the expertise to carry out exploration and surveying of disused mines. Such places are often more dangerous than natural caverns, but our members have many years experience of such exploration.
Unlike other mining areas, the South East has few readily available records of the mines. Such records as do exist are often found in the most unlikely places and the tracing of archival sources is an ongoing operation. A record of mining sites is maintained and constantly updated as further sites are discovered. Members are encouraged to carry out research into individual sites and this information is published in the Group’s newsletters and publications.
Through membership of the National Association of Mining History Organisations, the Group is in contact with over 40 societies and museums throughout the United Kingdom which allows liaison and exchange of information.
Mining history is a relatively recent branch of archaeology and there is great scope for original research in the South East. We welcome new members who have an interest in mining history and we are able to teach them the techniques of safe underground exploration. They are welcome to assist with ongoing projects and we can suggest many areas where they can carry out their own research. The unique feature of this interest is its many aspects; members can contribute just as much from surface recording and archival research as from underground exploration. All are welcome, including those who merely have an interest in the subject and wish to receive the publications.
We work closely with the Kent Bat Group in clearing out suitable underground sites and securing them. The latter is essential to prevent further dumping of rubbish and to ensure the bats are not disturbed. Amongst these sites are dene holes, ice houses, railway tunnels and follies.
We have the experience and equipment to explore and survey many types of underground sites, both man made and natural, the former ranging from WW2 bunkers to Roman wells. We recently carried out a survey for a highway maintenance company of the dene holes in a 500m corridor each side of the Kent motorways and have escorted engineers and surveyors into the Borstal Wood mine (front cover picture). We cleared out the well at Fort Amherst for the trustees. At present we are excavating a limestone mine just over the border in Sussex. A great many wells have been descended by our members using the man-carrying winch designed and built by one of our members. The latest was some 80m deep.
If you would like further information, either on the group or a subterranean feature, we have a web site at www.KURG.org.uk, or I can be reached on mikes@mikes.linch.co.uk or 01322 525425.
ABOVE BOTTOM: WW2 bunker at Canterbury