Up until August 4^th 1842, children played a very big part of the coal mining industry in the UK. In fact, before the law was passed and prevented women and children under the age of 10 from working in underground mines in Britain, it wasn’t uncommon for whole families to work in the mines in order to earn enough money. Whilst it is illegal now, the Victorians would have seen child labour as a normal part of everyday life and children as young as 5 were employed; carrying out the same hours as adults for less payment. Here at Pearson Fuels, we’re going to go over some of the key aspects of Victorian Coal Mining…

Trapper

This was the title that was often given to the youngest members of a family who were working underground. It was a very simple job and involved opening and closing the wooden trap doors that paved the way for fresh air to flow into the mines. Trappers would sit for twelve hours at a time in complete darkness and waited to allow the coal tub through the trap doors.

Hurrier and Thruster

Older children were given the title of hurrier/thruster and would pull/push the tubs of coal along the railways. Young children who were a part of this job role would team up to get the work done- however the older kids and women had to work alone. It was a very difficult job that involved hard labour.

Getter

For the strongest and oldest members of the family, the getter was a job role most commonly received. It involved working at the coal with a pickaxe. The getters were the only individuals that worked with a candle as they required the light to see the coal.

The team here at Pearson Fuels are very glad that the 1842 law prevented child labour from being abused and allowed many children to gain the education they deserved. Of course, the coal we provide has been collected by professionals only and we are proud to be a supplier of coal in 21^st century! Get in contact with best coal merchants around to find out more information today!