As a retired chemist, my original recollection was of its use in the context of alchemy. Google turns up an example from Sherwood Taylor's book on alchemy - which I read many years ago. Quite a few 19 C. industrial chemistry/mineralogy references also. The term was vague enough to have several meanings.

Either way, I'm curious about the "White Copper Alley" reference! Wonder what went on there? Was there a "Mint Lane" in the area?! Or a brothel?

Regards

---

Thread closed temporarily because it's been a target for a heavy barrage of Spam. If you have something to add to the discussion, contact me and I'll reopen it.
-Joe Offer-