Research information needed

[frada14]

Hey, I wasn't sure where to post this, so I hope here is OK?
My question isn't so much family history but more background research from what I have found, I have been researching my ancestor who was a miner and ww1 soldier. He was originally from Yorkshire but when he got married in 1915 it states on his marriage certificate that he was living in West Bolden in the County of Durham and working down the colliery, in the same year he joined the Northumberland Fusiliers where he was deployed to France. Now there is a few thing's that I would like to know if it's possible.
1.What colliery would he have most likely been working at, at this time? or what collieries were operational in the area at the time?
2. Is there anywhere I can find out where what West Bolden looked like and what the area was like to live in at the time?
I realise that this maybe a long shot, but if anyone has the slightest bit of information what will help me in my research then it will be hugely appreciative.
Thanks in advance.

[josey]

Hello & welcome  . I am sure you will find a lot of knowledgeable people here to help.

This query is probably best dealt with on the Northumberland board. If you click 'Report to Moderator' under your post you can ask for it to be moved.

Josey

[frada14]

Hello & welcome  . I am sure you will find a lot of knowledgeable people here to help.

This query is probably best dealt with on the Northumberland board. If you click 'Report to Moderator' under your post you can ask for it to be moved.

Josey

Hello, thanks for the advice. I'll do that.

[Jebber]

It is not an area I am familiar with, take a look at  Francis Frith Archive, there is a  1913-1920s map showing only one Colliery, unfortunately no photos.

[mazi]

You can see west boldon and boldon colliery on this map

http://maps.nls.uk/view/101099465

Mike

[frada14]

You can see west boldon and boldon colliery on this map

http://maps.nls.uk/view/101099465

Mike

Thanks, that's great!

[mazi]

Simply googling west boldon.  Or boldon colliery. And images.  Produces a good few images of the village and colliery.

As mining villages go it looks better than most, but life in the colliery in the northeast was a bit grim.

The village looks to have a pub and surrounded by open fields, and likely had a good community spirit.

Mike

[frada14]

Simply googling west boldon.  Or boldon colliery. And images.  Produces a good few images of the village and colliery.

As mining villages go it looks better than most, but life in the colliery in the northeast was a bit grim.

The village looks to have a pub and surrounded by open fields, and likely had a good community spirit.

Mike

That's good to hear, thanks!

[JenB]

The Durham Mining Museum is a good source of information  http://www.dmm.org.uk/colliery/b009.htm
 (I see this is on the Northumberland Board? West Boldon was in County Durham  )