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Bottom of a pit shaft in a coal mine with a train of loaded wagons, 1860
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Bottom of a pit shaft in a coal mine with a train of loaded wagons, 1860
Bottom of a pit shaft in a coal mine with a train of loaded wagons waiting to be hoisted to the surface, 1860. The coal wagons have flanged wheels. The man seated on right is lighting his clay pipe, a dangerous procedure underground in a coalmine where it could could cause an explosion of methane (firedamp). From A History of Coal, Coke, Coal Fields... by W Fordyce. (London, 1860)
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Media ID 14862861
© Oxford Science Archive / Heritage-Images
Coal Coal Industry Coal Miner Coal Mining Coal Truck Coal Waggon Coal Wagon Fuel Mine Mine Shaft Miner Mining Oxford Science Archive Rail Shaft Underground Waggon Wagon Fordyce
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print takes us back to the depths of a coal mine in 1860. At the bottom of a pit shaft, we witness a scene filled with both danger and industry. A train of loaded wagons patiently awaits their ascent to the surface, ready to deliver their valuable cargo. The significance of this image lies not only in its historical context but also in its attention to detail. The coal wagons featured here are equipped with flanged wheels, ensuring stability during transportation through the treacherous underground terrain. However, it is impossible to overlook the risks faced by these brave miners on a daily basis. Intriguingly, amidst this hazardous environment, we see a man seated on the right taking a momentary break from his laborious tasks. He calmly lights his clay pipe unaware that such an act could potentially trigger an explosion due to methane gas present underground (firedamp). This serves as a stark reminder of the constant peril faced by those working within this unforgiving industry. As we delve into history through this remarkable engraving from W Fordyce's book "A History of Coal, Coke, Coal Fields. . . ", we gain insight into Britain's rich mining heritage and the pivotal role played by coal as fuel during the 19th century. This image stands as testament to both human resilience and technological advancements that shaped our industrial past.
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