Charlestown History Group

06/09/2026

After the decline in copper, it was china clay and the coal needed to dry it that was the main activity in Charlestown. It sustained the port commercially for close to 200 years. In this photograph, with her hold covers secured, Bosco departs with a cargo of china clay destined for continental Europe. (Credits & Thanks: Charles Traill, History Group. CHG/SM1242/P1756).

30/08/2026

A late 1970s postcard view from the east beach across the harbour mouth towards the gun battery and the "cocked hat" - the colloquial name some used for Polmear Island. (Credits & Thanks: Charlestown History Group. CHG/SM1252/P2988) charlestownharbour; ,

23/08/2026

An atmospheric view of the outer harbour from the 1930s. (Credits & Thanks: History Group. CHG/SM1251/P4213).

09/08/2026

This view down Brick Hill (Duporth Road) is close to 100 years old, but a photo taken today would look very similar. The Beech trees lining the road creating Charlestown Avenue. (Credits & Thanks: Mac Waters, History Group. CHG/SM1161/P1206).

02/08/2026

Notice of port closure to commercial traffic from July 1993 to make way for filming of Disney's The Three Musketeers. Although there had been earlier filming in Charlestown, most famously The Eagle has Landed in the early 1970s, it was this production that was the catalyst that kick-started a new era of film and television production in the port that went on for more than the following two decades. (Credits & Thanks: History Group. CHG/SM1129/P1858).

26/07/2026

With Charlestown Regatta Week now in full swing, we’ve taken a look through the archives to share some photos from regattas of years gone by. (Credits & Thanks: Charlestown History Group. CHG/SM1250). Charlestown Regatta Week ; ; charlestownhistory;

25/07/2026

Flag flying today at the Gun Battery - 25th - 31st July 2026.
CHARLESTOWN REGATTA WEEK
Thanks to all who raise a flag to mark a special occasion and contribute valuable funds to help preserve and promote Charlestown's history.

Flying from the Gun Battery overlooking Charlestown to mark a special occasion. Flag Flying 5th March 2026 St Piran’s Day We only fly a flag from the Gun Battery, high over Charlestown, on a …

05/07/2026

A rare colour photo of work underway on the inner dock mouth widening and gate replacement in 1971. The work was done partly because new lock gates were needed but also by widening, by 8ft, it allowed larger vessels to enter, commercially extending the use of the port for a further three decades. The gates were also electrified at the time, consigning to history "Gate-Ho !", the call for estate workers to drop tools and help wind the capstans that manually opened the dock gate. (Credits & Thanks: History Group. CHG/SM1047/P1002). ,

21/06/2026

Much of interest in this late c19th. photograph. Work is underway connected to the 1890 gate replacement. Derrick cranes stand on both sides of the dock entrance and a traction engine on the quayside to provide some much needed lifting power. (Credits & Thanks: History Group. CHG/SM1089/P1562).

14/06/2026

Stopped off for refreshment. Horse and trap on Quay Road outside The Rashleigh Arms 1920s. (Credits & Thanks: History Group. CHG/SM1038/P1205).