Rare book relating to pit ponies

Yorkshire Photography


News: Latest News distributed around Yorkshire June 15, 2016 09:00:00 AM

A rare handwritten book documenting the use of pit ponies in coal mines has been donated to Barnsley Archives and Local Studies.

The lengthy document relates to Cortonwood Colliery and covers the first two years of the First World War (1914-1916). It details daily updates of the condition of each pony and names are also given, they include Nelson, Jerry, Lion, Boxer and Dandy!

Phillip Spurr, Service Director, said: “We know that ponies were used underground in the coal mining industry until the mid-20th century, but it’s rare to find them documented in this way. This volume is a welcome addition to the collections of Barnsley Archives and Local Studies. It helps our customers to conduct more thorough research and better understand our local mining heritage.”

The volume can be viewed in the Archives Discovery Centre in the town hall, alongside a selection of newly donated documents now on display.

For more information please visit www.experience-barnlsey.com or call 01226 773950.

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