LOCATION |
Map |
Show Map
|
Address |
Market Street BURRA |
Locality |
|
Accuracy |
L - low level confidence |
Council Area |
Goyder Council |
Polygon Type |
B - Building footprint |
DESCRIPTION |
Details (Known As) |
Burra Mines Historic Site [Includes Burra Jinker - Object of heritage significance] |
Registered Name |
Burra Mines Historic Site |
Significance |
STATEMENT OF HERITAGE SIGNIFICANCE (PLACE)
The following Statement of Heritage Significance dates from the time of entry of the Burra Historic Mine Site in the Register of State Heritage Items (now known as South Australian Heritage Register) in November 1984:
Historically, the Mines Historic site is important because the copper produced by it restored the colony's flagging economy during a crucial time in the mid 1840's. It is responsible for the establishment of the 'copper towns' surrounding the area, the mass influx of settlers who came from Cornwall and Wales to mine and smelt ore, and the provision of a transportation infrastructure that developed and established further settlement.
Physically, the Historic Site is important for containing the dramatic and spectacular remains of the State's most influential copper mining endeavour. The remains are as varied as they are beautiful and range from chimneys to huge areas of open cut.
Environmentally, the historic site is an exciting element in Burra's character and although its sheer size tends it to blend into the natural landscape, individual features are notable.
The Integrity, of the Historic Site has been compromised and most of it is left as ruins. But although not intact, the site does provide the evidence for its own appreciation.
STATEMENT OF HERITAGE SIGNIFICANCE (OBJECT)
The Burra Jinker (also known as the Woollacott Jinker) has significant associations with the early development and operations of the Burra Copper Mines. The Burra Mines were constructed on a huge scale at a time when copper formed a substantial part of South Australia's economy, and Burra remains one of Australia?s most significant heritage places associated with copper mining.
The rare surviving 'Jinker' at Burra reflects both the scale of operations at Burra and it has close associations with the work that went on at the Burra mine. First used in the 1850s, the Jinker is known to have transported the large boilers needed for the Schneider and subsequently, the Morphett Engine House from Port Adelaide to Burra. The Schneider Engine was delivered by Bell Freeman and the Morphett engine by William Woollacott who reportedly led a team of 6 drovers and 40 oxen (including 32 spare oxen).
The Jinker is considered an important artefact from Burra?s past and was displayed at Wayville showgrounds as part of the centenary celebrations in 1936 until it was moved to the main street of Burra in 1965. In 2014, a new shelter was constructed to help protect the Jinker from the elements.
The Jinker not only has important associations with the copper mines at Burra, but also demonstrates the evolution of early transport in South Australia, and in particular remarkable carting achievements. The Jinker was adapted for use and often repaired during some of these long and difficult journeys across harsh terrain, reflecting the early technical innovation of the new colonists. The determination and willpower of the men who drove this vehicle exemplifies the experiences of early South Australian settlers in overcoming the obstacles required to build the Burra Mines and the colony. |
Subject Index |
Mining and mineral processing - Mine |
Class |
State |
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|
STATUS |
Status Code |
REG - Confirmed as a State Heritage Place in the SA Heritage Register |
Status Date |
08-NOV-1984 |
REFERENCE |
LGA |
Goyder Regional Council |
State Heritage ID |
10970 |
Heritage Number |
14312 |
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|
SECTION 16 INFORMATION |
Section 16 |
|
PLAN PARCEL & TITLE |
As listed in the SA Heritage Register |
Plan Parcel & Title Information |
CT 5250/610 F1763 A2,CT 5882/153 F186980 A468,CT 6152/669 D95074 A603,CT 6217/812 D119910 Q301,302 |