The quarry was started in 1745 and the introduction of steam pumps in 1842 meant they could quarry to a depth of 250 feet below sea level with only a narrow wall of rock holding back the sea, This wall was breached during a storm in 1881 and brought end to slate quarrying at Ellenabeich. Isle of Seil.

Recommend a large view,

For the Sight and Sound Group a song by the Quarrymen, www.youtube.com/watch?v=R4_LMMKq8Hw