South Yorkshire Coalfield
South Yorkshire Coalfield
The South Yorkshire Coalfield is a historically significant coal mining region situated in the Yorkshire and the Humber area of England. This coalfield is part of the larger Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire and Yorkshire Coalfield, encompassing parts of both South Yorkshire and West Yorkshire, extending into North Yorkshire.
Geography and Geology
Geologically, the South Yorkshire Coalfield is defined by its coal-bearing strata, known as coal measures, which are carboniferous rocks formed approximately 290 to 354 million years ago. The western boundary is marked by the outcropping of coal seams in the foothills of the Pennines, while the eastern boundary is where these strata descend under overlying rocks towards the North Sea.
This area is divided into two distinct parts: the exposed coalfield and the concealed coalfield. In the exposed coalfield, coal seams are visible and accessible, while in the concealed coalfield, particularly around Doncaster, the coal measures are overlain by younger Permian limestone.
Notable Coal Seams
The most notable coal seam within this coalfield is the Barnsley Seam or Bed, known for its high-grade bituminous coal. This seam was extensively mined for the production of coal gas and coke. The Frickley Trough and Maltby Trough are significant geological features within the coalfield, where coal measures are present at greater depths due to faulting.
Historical Significance
The mining operations in the South Yorkshire Coalfield historically centered around industrial towns such as Sheffield, Rotherham, and Barnsley. The region played a critical role in the Industrial Revolution, providing a vital energy source for burgeoning industries.
Notable Collieries
- Hatfield Colliery - Located northwest of Hatfield, mining the High Hazel seam.
- Huskar Pit - Known for the tragic Huskar Pit disaster in 1838, located near the village of Silkstone.
- Brodsworth Colliery - Known for exploiting the Barnsley seam.
Decline and Legacy
The decline of the coal industry in the late 20th century led to the closure of many collieries. The Lofthouse Colliery disaster and subsequent colliery closures, such as Brodsworth and others, marked the end of an era. Miners often transferred to newer complexes like the Selby Coalfield.
Despite the decline, the South Yorkshire Coalfield remains an area of historical and cultural significance, reflecting the social history and economic development of the region.