Carlisle Spedding (1695-1755), was principal colliery engineer and steward to Sir James Lowther of Whitehaven.  His obituary claimed that Sir James’ immense fortune rested on Spedding’s ‘uncommon Abilities, assiduous Application, and intrepid Conduct’.

His ‘uncommon Abilities’ led to many innovations.  He designed the flint-mill as the first safety light for miners. He also pioneered the use of the Newcomen engine to ventilate mines. The success of this method of ventilation led to the sinking of the undersea Saltom Pit in 1729.

His ‘assiduous Application’ included an early example of industrial espionage.  Spedding worked undercover using a false name in the North East collieries.  How do we know his later success was not based on what he saw there?

His ‘intrepid Conduct’ included frequent trips underground.  He worked in the same conditions as the miners.  He took the risks of being injured and he suffered similar health problems caused by the gasses known as firedamp and blackdamp.  Eventually in 1755 he was killed underground in a gas explosion.