A Glimpse into Somerset’s Mining Past: The National Coal Board Apprentices 1957
In this treasured photograph, taken in 1957, we see a group of young men at the start of their careers in the mining industry.
These were apprentices of the Somerset National Coal Board, learning the essential trades that would keep the mines running, from electrical and mechanical work to engineering.
The image captures not only the faces of determination and camaraderie but also an important era in Somerset’s rich mining history. Among the group is one of our own trustees, Bryn Hawkins, who began his journey as an electrical and mechanical apprentice, later contributing his expertise and dedication to the industry.
The National Coal Board
The 1950s was a period when mining communities were at the heart of the UK’s economy, and the National Coal Board played a crucial role in training the next generation of miners and engineers. Apprenticeships were key to ensuring the safety and efficiency of mining operations, with trainees receiving hands-on experience in the pits and workshops.
This photo serves as a reminder of the young men who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to maintain Somerset’s coal mines and preserve the livelihood of the region’s mining communities. Bryn Hawkins, like many of his peers, went on to become a vital part of Somerset’s mining legacy, keeping the industry’s wheels turning through hard work and innovation.
As we look back at this image, it’s a moment to honour the skills, dedication, and teamwork of these apprentices, who were so integral to the industry that shaped Somerset’s landscape and heritage.
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