Video: Hidden lives of Yorkshire’s coal traders

It was an industry which left a permanent mark on our nation’s economy and landscape.
Curator of Industry Mark Carlyle shows Lord St Oswald around the exhibition.Curator of Industry Mark Carlyle shows Lord St Oswald around the exhibition.
Curator of Industry Mark Carlyle shows Lord St Oswald around the exhibition.

Now the story of coal trading throughout the ages, from the late 15th century to the early 20th century, is to be celebrated by Yorkshire’s National Coal Mining Museum.

The Hidden Lives of the Coal Traders runs until September 29 and follows the journeys of the keelmen who ferried the coal along the River Tyne, and the coal heavers who spent their working lives moving coal from the ships to London’s docks, as well as the coal deliveries to homes by coal lorries.

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The exhibition features objects from the unique collection of the Coal Meters’ Committee – the committee of former ‘coal tax collectors’, who used surplus capital when they were disbanded in the 1960s to save coal trade artefacts for the benefit of future generations. Amassed by the Coal Meters over a number of years, this is a unique opportunity to see their wonderful collection of prints, paintings, and models.

Curator of Industry Mark Carlyle shows Lord St Oswald around the exhibition.Curator of Industry Mark Carlyle shows Lord St Oswald around the exhibition.
Curator of Industry Mark Carlyle shows Lord St Oswald around the exhibition.

Mark Carlyle, Curator of Industry, said: “This exhibition is a great way for families to go on an interactive journey that brings this part of our history to life. Coal merchants were an everyday part of street life, a way of life that has almost disappeared today, and I think it’s important that we remember this part of our heritage.”