Limekiln, Lower Kelly, Cornwall
This limekiln dates from the early 19th century. It was built into the bank so that the limestone and coal could be easily loaded in from the top. The mixture was fired (heated) from below and burned for 3 days. The finished lime was taken out at the bottom after having cooled for 2 more days. Lime was very important in the 19th century. It was used for mortar, to improve the land for farming and for limewashing the outside and inside walls of houses. There were many local limekilns because it was difficult to transport coal and limestone.
