English Coal Mining History at the NCMME

Digging a deep mine shaft was dangerous and unpleasant work and during periods of expansion within the industry, people were specifically employed to undertake this task. These shaft sinkers travelled from pit to pit opening up many new shafts for the coal owners. As in this photograph, the sinkers wore special clothing, waterproof trousers, coats and boots together with a helmet with a large brim, which would have prevented any water or debris falling onto them. The coal mining museum has many photographs like this one within its collections, together with pieces of sinking clothing and equipment.