East Wheal Russell was situated approximately one and a quarter miles southeast of Gunnislake, within the West Devon Mining District. The mine worked three principal mineral veins: the Main Lode, accessed via Homersham’s Shaft, Murchison’s (Air) Shaft, and Hitchins’ Shaft; the Middle Lode; and the North Lode.

The geological structure of the mine included the Main, North, South, and Middle Lodes, intersected by crosscourses composed of fluccan and spar. Mining operations were carried out through several shafts, notably the Engine Shaft, Murchison Shaft, and Homersham Shaft, from which various levels and drives were developed.

Ore and machinery were shipped via Morwellham Quay, located only one mile from the mine, while the nearest railway station was at Plymouth, some 17 miles distant.

Historical records provide valuable insight into the operation and administration of East Wheal Russell. The Mining Almanack and Manual for 1851 lists the mine as “East Wheal Russell, Tavistock, Copper,” with J. H. Murchison acting as Secretary and J. H. Hitchins as Agent. The lease was set for a term of 20 years, with dues fixed at one-fifteenth. The undertaking comprised 4,000 shares, each valued at 5 shillings.

The Post Office Directory of 1856 records the mine as being located in Tavistock, Devon, within the manor and mining district of Tavistock.

Copper was the mine’s principal product. In 1851, output amounted to 36 tons 11 cwt., valued at £160, while in 1853 production increased to 60 tons 12 cwt., worth £545 11s. 6d. Between 1853 and 1869, East Wheal Russell sold a total of 9,149 tons of copper ore, realising £54,387.

Management of the mine included W. E. Commune as purser and William Metherell as Captain. The company operated under the costbook system, with its London offices located at 117 Bishopsgate Street Within, where J. H. Murchison also served as secretary.