Announcement Date: March 28, 2015
SURFACE WALK – As the weather forecast had predicted, heavy rain shortened the walk on this years return visit to the Constant Mary Colliery on 28th March. As the photograph shows, the site is in excellent condition.
This drift coal mine was worked by a 12ft diameter waterwheel with a 7ft diameter cog wheel turning a 12ft winding drum. We followed a shortened walk to the River Calder and then viewed the still-standing engine house which had held an atmospheric type pumping engine of c1800. Many thanks to Richard Matthews who explained both the underground and surface features of the site.
At the Woodend Museum further expansion of the building and the collection of artifacts was visible compared with our visit last year.
Popular events now are the Miners and Family Weekends, which support the local history project. Thanks to Harry and Carole Johnson for hosting the visit and supplying refreshments. And thanks to the NMRS members who came along on a very wet day.
Note A small article has appeared in the Burnley newspapers which explains that plans have been submitted for a further extension of the existing building, refreshment area, basically to extend the showrooms. It reads: Decision to approve the plans is likely to be made in September.
Bernard Bond
