National Mining Museum Scotland facts for kids
The National Mining Museum Scotland is a special place that helps us learn about coal mining in Scotland. It was started in 1984 to save the buildings and equipment of the old Lady Victoria Colliery (a coal mine). This mine is located in Newtongrange, Midlothian, Scotland.
The Lothian Coal Company built the mine in 1890, and it started digging for coal in 1894. In 1947, the government took over the mine as part of the National Coal Board. The mine finally closed in 1981.
Historic Buildings at the Museum
The buildings at Lady Victoria Colliery are very important. They are some of the best examples of a large Victorian coal mine that still exist today. Even though some parts, like the 1950s cafeteria, were taken down, most of the original structures are still standing.
The museum has a special engine called a winding engine, made by Grant, Ritchie and Company. This engine was used to lift coal and miners up and down the mine shaft. The tall structures above the mine shaft, called headstocks, were built by Arrols of Glasgow. Since 1998, many of the main buildings have been made stronger, and new areas for visitors have opened.
Amazing Museum Collections
The museum has gathered many interesting items and information. They have a library filled with books and documents about mining. They also have exhibitions in a visitor center, which used to be part of the mine's offices.
For a while, a large steam engine called the Prestongrange beam engine was also part of the museum. This type of engine, known as a Cornish engine, was located in Prestonpans, East Lothian. However, in 2021, the responsibility for this engine moved to East Lothian Council.
National Recognition
Lady Victoria Colliery is a very important historical site. It is listed as Category 'A' by Historic Scotland, which means it's a building of national importance. In 2008, to celebrate the 100th birthday of the Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Scotland, a drawing of Lady Victoria Colliery was voted Scotland's Most Treasured Place online. A poem was also written to remember the colliery.
Many people describe the museum as a "national treasure." It keeps the story of coal mining alive for everyone, both now and in the future. The entire collection at the museum is recognized as a Nationally Significant Collection by Museums Galleries Scotland on behalf of the Scottish Government.
