About the Project

The History of Coal Mining in 10 Objects was originally part of an Arts and Humanities Research Council, Creative Economy Knowledge Exchange project. Commissioned in 2013 and supported by the Universities of Nottingham, Leicester and Nottingham Trent University, the project explores new ways of engaging audiences with archival content and heritage sites.

The research team consisted of historian Dr David Amos and digital producer Paul Fillingham, and supervised by Dr Sarah Badcock; Associate Professor, Department of History, University of Nottingham.  The project was made with the assistance of ex-mining surveyor Robert Bradley, film-makers Joel Foote and David Stewart, and the co-operation of Bilsthorpe Heritage Museum,  D.H. Lawrence Birthplace Museum, Tin Hat Centre, Selston and the National Coal Mining Museum for England.

The project pilots the use of digital technologies to engage former mineworkers their families and the public, exploring the significance of ten selected objects and how they contributed to the development of the British coal industry and coal mining culture.

The study came about at a pivotal time in the history of the British coal industry with production reduced to three working collieries and many former mineworkers entering their twilight years. Research output was publicised via the web, social media channels, print and public events. The digital assets continue to provide a focus for public engagement.