Mining activities in this area date as far back as 1753, initially focusing on areas north of the main Cleator Moor road. In 1825, Crowgarth pit was established south of the road, followed by the sinking of York pit, St. John’s pit, and No.4 pit between 1870 and 1882. Mining operations persisted until the economic downturn of the 1920s, which led to significant surface settlement in Cleator Moor as the mine extended upwards to follow the shallow ore-body.

Crowgarth pit is renowned for its high-quality baryte specimens, which exhibit clear, blue, and yellow colors, often with hematite inclusions. Additionally, quartz containing specularite and small chalcopyrite crystals are found in this area. York Pit gained acclaim for producing pencil-ore of exceptional quality, some of which was exported to the German jewelry trade. Dolomite pseudomorphs after Kidney-ore have also been reported from this site.

1911-1918 Berrier Mining Co. Ltd