George Bruce of Carnock

The Scottish merchant, engineer and innovator in coal mining techniques, Sir George Bruce, introduced undersea mining into the Upper Hirst seam. It used a new drainage technology that attracted a visit from King James VI in 1617. The king accepted Bruce's invitation to visit one of his mines which tunneled down beneath the sea bed. After venturing into a tunnel which went far out into the Firth of Forth, the king found himself at a shaft point where the coal was loaded onto the ships. Water surrounded the top of the shaft and king James, alarmed with this, accused Sir George of an assassination attempt and of treason. George Bruce then pointed out the rowing boat and explained that they could either use the boat or return by the tunnel from whence they came. The king relaxed and took the option of the boat journey.