History Extra podcast Mining history: everything you wanted to know
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Feb 23, 2025 In this conversation, Professor Robert Colls, a Research Professor of English History with expertise in British mining, delves into the rich history of mining in the UK. He reveals how much miners earned for their hard labor and discusses the often-overlooked roles of women and children underground. Colls explains the curious use of canaries as early gas detectors, while also highlighting the evolution of safety measures, such as the Davy lamp. The struggle and unity among miners during significant strikes provide a poignant insight into the social dynamics of mining communities.
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Coal's Changing Relevance
- Robert Colls's grandchildren don't know what coal is, highlighting its diminished importance.
- Coal was ubiquitous, even getting into people's noses and fingernails, contrasting sharply with today.
Mining Beyond Coal
- The UK historically mined various materials beyond coal, including gold, iron ore, and tin.
- The Romans' significant use of tin underscores its historical importance.
Mining Locations and Types
- Drift mining involved digging into hillsides, while bell pits were smaller excavations accommodating a few men.
- The North East's coalfields dominated, with South Wales emerging as a strong competitor by 1914.