The idea
Thornhill is a proud former mining community and experienced many tragic loses in the Combs Pit disaster and other accidents.
We would like to install a permanent memorial in Thornhill Rectory Park where community members who worked in the pit or had family members who worked their could visit and reflect. Also we hope that local schools use the memorial as an opportunity to teach youngsters about local history and the mining industry.
It will be a focus of pride for the families and friends who lost loved ones.
The Combs Pit disaster happened on 4th July 1893 when a large explosion ripped through the mine killing 139 men and boys from the local area.
At Inghams Pit Thornhill Lees in 1947 another disaster occurred killing 12 men.
What we'll deliver
- Install a Half Mining Wheel as a memorial in Thornhill Rectory Park
Why it's a great idea
The wheel itself will look striking and the site was chosen so there is nearby seating at picnic benches and a path that will enable it to be accessible for all from the car park.
It will serve as a permanent reminder of our rich mining heritage and a place of study and reflection.
Local school children can visit the memorial to learn about Thornhills mining industry .
Families can come to the memorial to remember relations and loved ones lost to the mining industry.
Steps to get it done
- We plan to install the Mining Memorial in Spring 2026
