This
book is much, much, more than the story of the Pit Sinkers of the
North East indeed it covers a vast range of associated topics from
across the UK and beyond.
The
first chapter is the history of shaft sinking, linking the
development of engineering from primitive beginnings, and then the
book goes on to explore methods, equipment and contracts. There is an
extensive chapter on colliery disasters and the human story is
vividly told in two chapters who’s titles includes the words,
amongst others: slavery, serfdom and mining engineers. I was
particularly moved by the author’s description of how his father,
shortly after starting work at the age of twelve in 1912, was carried
to work on the back of his elder brother. Once underground in the hot
pit, his limbs warmed up and he was able to work, but on his journey
home above ground he was again carried.
The
book has many similar human stories but also records the involvement
of the major engineers, colliery owners, writers, land owners and is
packed with facts.
The
Pit Sinkers of Northumberland and Durham is not only a tribute to
the men who worked under extreme conditions, but also tells the
evocative story of mining society as a whole and gives a unique
glimpse into the lives of those most affected by the industry. With
further chapters on transportation and accommodation, celebrations &
holidays and miner’s habits, the book must be regarded as a major
guide to the region’s and nation’s historically important
industry.
Peter
Ford Mason is descended from three generations of North East miners:
his great-grandfather was a master pit sinker who died sinking a
shaft in 1885. His work is meticulously researched and nothing seems
to be left out.
There are 60 black and white photographs, many
previously unpublished. The Pit Sinkers of Northumberland and Durham
by Peter Ford Mason is published by the History Press and is priced
£12.99.
