A History of the Durham Miner's Association 1870-1904

The volume presents a compact yet thorough account of the Durham Miners' Association from its shaky start in the early 1870s to its more settled position by 1904. Written by a longtime secretary and local MP who walked the pits alongside his fellow workers, it blends personal observation with careful research drawn from surviving minutes, newspaper reports and even employer records. The narrative stays clear and plain, letting the everyday hardships, negotiations and early victories of the miners speak for themselves.

Listeners will discover how the Association organized its first Hall, how early deputations and committees handled disputes, and which local leaders helped shape its direction. The book also sketches the wider social and political currents that pressed on the coalfields, giving context to the push for safety, wages and representation. Its modest, documentary style makes it a useful guide for anyone interested in the roots of British trade‑unionism.