There was a bloomery near to this site between 1678 and 1727. This was powered from a reservoir within this polygon which was about 360m by 75m. (Umpleby 2000,176). A map of Stainborough estate from 1730 (on Wentworth Castle and Stainborough Park Heritage Trust 2006 - accessed 4/05/07) shows the smithy pond developed into an ornamental lake. In 1823 it was proposed to enlarge the reservoir for the Dove and Dearne Canal company. This application was refused but later accepted. The reservoir was expanded to the full size of this polygon in 1846. It was drained shortly after because mines under Vernon-Wentworth's land were flooded. (Umpleby 2000,176-7). In 1855 Stafford Colliery was opened (Gill 2007b). By 1893 mapping the base of the former reservoir is partially filled with spoil. This infilling continued till the mine closed in 1935. The site is now partially covered in scrub but the shape of the former reservoir is still visible so legibility is partial.