Archives in Action - Mining for Memories
Part of our mission with Cheshire’s archives: a story shared is to build on our collections with stories of people in communities across Cheshire.
Some of our most fascinating collections highlight the huge role of salt in shaping Cheshire’s history, like Winsford Rock Salt Mine that opened in 1844.
At pop-up displays in Winsford and Wharton Libraries we invited local people - and workers of the mine past and present - to share their memories and record their stories about the impact it has had on their lives.
Original maps, showing how the mine changed a rural area into a thriving community, brought memories of how rock blasting would make china cups rattle in local houses, and how after a hard day’s work, some houses became makeshift ‘beer halls’ for the thirsty workers!
Archives showing changes in technology and working conditions drew comment, particularly the early cage lift used to lower workers 200 feet down the mine! We heard how today’s mining machines are so large they are sent down in pieces and rebuilt underground – a long way from the picks and shovels of yesteryear.
Images of a great flood at the mine in 1968 were reminders of a time of worry, but also of triumph. Projected at life size, one visitor even recognised his father in them, working as part of the effort that stopped the water and saved the mine.
Photograph albums prompted stories of life working the salt flats (boats) used to transport salt along the River Weaver - one may have been used for a weekend leisure trip or two!
The recorded interviews reunited former colleagues. There was a real sense of belonging, as we heard how one family has worked the mine for four generations and how colleagues would play football together outside work. There were also tales of going fishing at Winsford Flashes after the night shift so as not to wake those sleeping at home!
Overall, it was great to see how the archives inspired memories of the mine, and how important it continues to be to people in Winsford, with new stories yet to be told and added to our collections.
We will be taking archives to Cheshire communities and collecting new stories at pop-up displays throughout 2025, and when we open our new centres in 2026.
by Michael Keegan, Archives Assistant
