Discovering Eastwood's Mining Heritage: A Tour of Local Collieries
Eastwood is a former coal mining town in the Broxtowe district of Nottinghamshire, with a rich history and a proud mining legacy. In this blog, we’ll take a tour of some of the town’s most notable collieries and explore the stories of the people who worked there.
Discovering Eastwood’s Mining History
Mining has played a significant role in the history of Eastwood, and there are many places in and around the town where you can learn about this fascinating industry.
Moorgreen Colliery, which opened in 1868, was one of the largest mines in the area and employed thousands of people. Coal from Eastwood was transported to various parts of the country, including London and other major cities. It was used to power factories, heat homes, and fuel the locomotives of the expanding railway network.
Today, it’s a popular tourist attraction where you can explore the winding engine house, the pithead baths, and the winding engine museum. The museum has interactive displays that allow you to experience what life was like for the miners who worked at the colliery.
Memories from Home Instead Clients
Here are some testimonials from our clients at Home Instead who have fond memories of the mining history in Eastwood:
“My husband used to work at Moorgreen Colliery, and it’s good to see the winding house and engine preserved for future generations. We often take our grandchildren to see it and talk to them about their grandad’s work.” – Rose, Client
“I grew up in Eastwood and remember playing with my friends on the slag heaps around the mines. The area has changed a lot since of course. Nothing stays the same but it’s important to keep the memories here alive.”
DH Lawrence Birthplace Museum
Another must-visit location is the DH Lawrence Birthplace Museum, which celebrates the life and work of the famous author who was born in Eastwood. Lawrence was a controversial writer and social critic, whose works explored themes of class and industrialisation. His novels, such as “Sons and Lovers,” “The Rainbow,” and “Women in Love,” were often banned or censored due to their controversial content. Lawrence’s writing was heavily influenced by his upbringing in Eastwood, which was dominated by the coal mining industry. His work is still celebrated today and has had a lasting impact on literature and society. The museum is housed in a house where Lawrence was born and features displays of his life and the history of the area.
Family-Friendly Activities
Eastwood has plenty of family-friendly activities that celebrate the town’s mining history. One of the best ways to explore the area is to follow the Blue Line Trail, a painted line on the pavement that guides visitors around 11 sites of local interest. This trail is a great way to discover the town’s rich history and learn more about one of its most famous resident, DH Lawrence.
For a more hands-on experience, head to the Winding Engine House in Moorgreen Colliery, where you can see the steam engines and learn how they were used to transport coal from the mine. The site also has a play area for children, making it a great day out for the whole family.
Eastwood’s mining history is a fascinating and important part of the town’s heritage, and there are plenty of ways to explore it. From the Moorgreen Colliery to the DH Lawrence Birthplace Museum, there’s something for everyone in Eastwood.
If you’re interested in learning more about the town’s history, why not plan a visit? And if you or a loved one needs support with daily tasks or care, Home Instead Nottingham is here to help. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can support you.
Learn more about our services and how we can support your loved ones. Get in touch with us today!
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