National Mining Museum Scotland facts for kids
The National Mining Museum Scotland opened in 1984. Its main goal was to save and show the buildings of the Lady Victoria Colliery in Newtongrange, Midlothian, Scotland. A colliery is a coal mine and all its buildings above ground.
The Lothian Coal Company built this mine in 1890. It started digging for coal in 1894. In 1947, the mine became owned by the government. This happened when the National Coal Board was created. The Lady Victoria Colliery stopped working in 1981.
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Exploring the Museum Buildings
The buildings at the museum are very special. They are a great example of a large Victorian coal mine. The Victorian era was a time in history from 1837 to 1901. Most of the original buildings from that time are still standing. Some newer parts, like a canteen from the 1950s, were taken down.
The museum has important machines. The winding engine, which helped move things up and down the mine, was made by Grant, Ritchie and Company. The tall structures above the mine shafts, called headstocks, were built by Arrols of Glasgow. Since 1998, many of these main buildings have been made stronger. New places for visitors to explore have also opened.
Discovering Museum Collections
The museum has gathered many interesting items. These include a library full of books and documents about mining. It also has exhibitions that tell the story of coal mining. These displays are in a visitor centre. This centre used to be part of the mine's offices.
For a while, the museum also looked after a special machine. This was the Prestongrange beam engine. It was a large steam engine used to pump water out of mines. This engine was located in Prestonpans, East Lothian. Later, the local council took over caring for it.
Why the Museum is Important
The Lady Victoria Colliery is a very important historical site. It is listed as a Category 'A' building by Historic Scotland. This means it is a building of national importance.
In 2008, people voted online for Scotland's Most Treasured place. This was to celebrate 100 years of a group called the Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Scotland. The Lady Victoria Colliery won this vote! A poem was also written to remember the mine.
Many people see the museum as a "national treasure." It helps keep the story of coal mining alive for everyone. The entire collection at the museum is recognized as a Nationally Significant Collection. This means it is very important for Scotland's history.
More Information
- National Mining Museum Scotland website
