Penwith Local History Group | Penzance, Cornwall, UK

Penwith Local History Group

Welcome

We research the fascinating history of West Penwith by working with original sources as much as possible. We publish our findings every two or three years.

The Morrab Library showing the new extension.
Photo Glyn Richards

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On this Day 17th August 1868

Botallack: Tourist Destination of the 1860s

When R.M. Ballantyne, celebrated author of boys' adventure stories such as Coral Island, went underground at Botallack on 17th August 1868 he was just one of many to visit the wonder mine of the west and sign the sign the Vistors Book.

Images of our publications

Our new publication is now available:

"Beyond the Bookshelves"

Edited by Sally Corbet

price £15.00
plus p&p

Click here to see all the Penwith Local History Group publications.

The Penwith Papers

Best Foot Forward: the Public Benefit Boot Company in Penzance

In the heart of Penzance, at 27 Market Place, is a notable building with a terracotta façade in Art Noveau style at second and third floor level. Integral to the decoration are the initials PBBC, proudly incorporated as testimony to the original occupants of the site. Look up, stranger, and behold: the ghost of the Public Benefit Boot Company.