« Reply #8 on: Monday 26 November 18 18:46 GMT (UK) »
Hi Stan,
Many thanks again for posting the article. This certainly gives an insight about the harshness of life at that time. I presume the photo showing the two rows of houses will be the 'Medomsley Cottages' where my ancestors would have once lived?
Thankfully, my Great Grandparents were in Birtley by 1885 (it seems from Church baptisms) I am glad about that as the article does give an impression that this pit would not have been a very good place to work as there appears to have been no regard for the welfare of the miners and their families. No wonder some of my Great Grandfather's brothers decided to try their luck in America rather than remain in the North east. The article was fascinating to read, though very saddening about the plight the miners were placed in.
However, it was great to read in the article that the 'Candymen' refused' to evict the miners - it seems they, at least, had a heart. It is heartbreaking though that the evictions did eventually go ahead. It would seem the poor miners were just treated like expendable commodities rather than people doing work which kept the whole country running.
I have been on the mining tour at Beamish Museum and on this you get to hear about the harsh conditions for the miners. I remember being told on their talk that if the miners did not get a certain quota of coal they would not get paid - so the miners always tried to aim to get a bit more to ensure they were paid. However, any excess mined coal was not given credit for. So lots of free mined coal for the mine owners.
Stan, I do really appreciate all the help you have provided regarding this query of mine today.
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