Exhibition keeps memory
IMPACT OF COAL-MINING LEGACY ON BOROUGH’S COMMUNITY
Heritage Reporter THE impact of coal mining in shaping South Tyneside communities is told in an exhibition which opened at the weekend.
The display at South Shields Museum, which runs until September 29, marks 50 years since the closure of Whitburn Colliery and 25 years since South Tyneside’s last pit – Westoe Colliery – shut down.
King Coal: the Life and Legacy of South Tyneside’s coal Mining Communities, celebrates the area’s mining heritage and the memories it has left – including those of the 1984-85 miners’ strike.
On show is a re-creation of the hut outside the gates of Westoe Colliery in South Shields which was used by pickets during the strike.
The exhibition also features more than 20 paintings by artist Bob Olley, who worked for 11 years at Whitburn Colliery, depicting men at work and examining different aspects of the miner’s life. Geoff Woodward, manager of South Shields Museum & Art Gallery, said: “Coal mining played a huge role in shaping the development and character of South Tyneside and its people.
“Although the mines have now long since closed, the culture of the coal mining communities is still very much alive and resonating today through language, values and memories.
“It’s very fitting that we mark these significant anniversaries by examining and celebrating the borough’s enduring connection with coal.”
Bob said: “I hope this exhibition