References to lime working at Minera Quarry date from the early 17th century, but large-scale extraction began in the mid-19th century, following the establishment of the Minera Limeworks Company.

1852 Minera Limeworks quarried to the south of the stream that bisects the quarry, the Aber Sychnant. 1857 Lester’s quarried on the north side but on a smaller scale. 1867 A steam locomotive, Minera, was bought for moving raw materials within the quarry. 1868 The first Hoffman Kiln was built. 1874 The 2nd kiln was built but was about half the size with just 12 chambers. 1929 saw the installation of gas-fired kilns and the Hoffmans were mothballed. 1954 Adam Lythgoe. Ground lime used in agriculture. No burning required so kilns fell into disuse. 1967 Tarmac producing road aggregate. 1993 Quarrying discontinued. 2005 Minera Quarry Trust is formed. 2017 North Wales Wildlife Trust obtain the site as a nature reserve.