Plaque tribute to pit tragedy
A Washington resident who has tirelessly campaigned for a memorial to commemorate all those who died in a mining tragedy finally unveiled a blue plaque in their honour.
Local campaigner Rita has for years asked for a memorial to remember all those who died in the first recorded deep mine explosion in Fatfield in 1708, 310 years ago to date.
And on Saturday, August 18, Rita had the honour of unveiling the tribute – the second of Washington’s blue plaques.
The plaque is to remember not just the men but also the women and the children who died in this tragic accident.
The area chairman Coun Len Laughlan said a few words and a blessing was given by Pat, the lay preacher from St George’s Church, and then Bressford the miners hymn was played.
Couns Taylor and Miller, from the Washington East ward, who supported the application, were also present at the installation of the second of Washington blue plaques.
A wake and memorial tea was then held in Harraton Community Association, one of the last remaining miners’ welfares.
A representative from CISWO attended the ceremony to give support to any miners who attended this very important day.
The blue plaque was funded by community chest money through the Washington Trust.
The residents of Fatfield and Harraton would like to thank the Washington Trust for all its hard work and the Washington Area committee, Sunderland City Council for funding the application of the community chest grant.