The following is an extract from an article published in the Lancaster Gazette on Saturday 12 June 1875 (page 2):
Nearly opposite [Salt Lake] cottages there is a large quarry, from which thousands of tons of stone have been got. At the time of our visit work is still proceeding here under the charge of a good-natured portly 'ganger' who, with dimensions almost equal to those of the Claimant, seems to thrive thoroughly well, in spite of hard work and constant exposure to all sorts of weather. At the quarry, as well as at other points along the line, we find Blakes Patent Stone Crusher (belonging to the Mayor of Leeds) in active use and highly appreciated, some of the officials indeed, speaking of it as having proved almost invaluable in breaking hard stones for road purposes and permanent way.