Fifty years ago Britain was reliant on coal for its energy needs. Across the country, over a million people worked as miners, risking injury and often their lives to extract ‘black gold’ from the earth. These robust people were admired by many for their courage and physical durability, and though feared by some for their political strength, they helped shape the national identity for generations.
David Tonks grew up in an East Durham colliery village. His book aims to help you discover the world in which your mining ancestors lived - a world that, perhaps, is more complex and fascinating than you might imagine. David details the social history of miners and establishes the records that are available.
"An excellent textbook.”
Your Family Tree Magazine
Author: David Tonks
Published: Third edition 2014