In 1858 Stirling starting borings on Todholes, near Cleator, and had almost given up prospecting when haematite was discovered. In 1862 he started looking in the Montreal area where more haematite was discovered. Montreal Mine was unique in that it was a coal and iron ore mine, both being drawn through the same shaft.
- Coal was produced at Montreal Pit until 1918. In 1852 Stirling, a local magistrate, and his wife Marian took up residence at Park House, Bigrigg and the couple had six children. Around 10 years later the family moved to Bridekirk, near Cockermouth where Marian, the daughter of John Hartley of Moresby House (later Howgate Hotel), was to give birth to four more children.

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Opening Day Of Crossfield Bowling Club, C1881 |