CoalMining

(from Geordies, Yankees & Canucks by William Wonders)At Thornley, as at other new mines in East Durham, the landowner, Henry John Spearman was not directly involved in developing or operating the colliery. Instead, he leased the mining rights to the partners of the Thornley Coal Company. As Lords of the Manor of the Thornley Estate, the family had abandoned Thornley Hall in … [Read more...] about Coal Mining In East Durham – Part 2

(from Geordies, Yankees & Canucks by William Wonders)The second half of the 17th Century saw rising land values as a result of which yeomen farmers increasingly prospered in the East Durham area. By the 18th Century wealthy businessmen and professionals from the cities began to purchase land for investment purposes, though the agricultural quality of plateau land (land on … [Read more...] about Coal Mining In East Durham – Part 1

The traditional view of English coal-miners during the second half of the 19th Century suggests that they were notorious for their lack of thrift and, in particular for their failure to insure against the many risks of a dangerous occupation. A Mining Journal in 1857 reported: “It is the first duty of every man to make provision for his family, and upon no one of the labouring … [Read more...] about Miners Permanent Relief Fund