The Discovery of Coal
The discovery of coal in Kent led to the first mine being built, the Shakespeare Colliery. Also known as Dover Colliery, was Kent's first coal mine. The Colliery was owned by Kent Coalfields Syndicate Limited and was formed in 1896 to take over the old Channel Tunnel workings at Shakespeare Cliff.
Other collieries opened such as:
The Tillmanston Colliery was operated from 1906 until 1986, playing a crucial role in the Kent coal industry.​
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The Snowdown Colliery was established in 1907 until its closure in 1987.
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The Chislet Colliery was used from 1914 all the way to 1969.
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The Betteshanger Colliery was Kent's largest colliery running from 1924 to 1989
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Why Coal?
Coal was a vital resource which significantly contributed to Kent's economy, providing jobs and opportunities for thousands of people, some coming as far as South Africa to work in the mines. The coal itself was used for the development of new housing and the industrialization of Kent. This subsequently led to mining towns such as Ayelsham and Mill Hill to expand.
Working Conditions
Working conditions in the mines were poor for modern standards, long shifts combined with the constant possibility of mine collapses and flooding meant that mine workers were never safe. Often resorting to humor and community to cope. In the long term there was also a threat of health risks often caused by inhaling coal dust. It is safe to say that being a coal miner in Kent was by no means a safe job, though they stuck together even in the hardest of times.
Miner Strikes and Aftermath
When threatened with pit closures in 1984, miners across the country began to strike and protest against the government. Unfortunately Tilmanstone, Snowdown and Betteshanger all closed on march 3rd 1985. However the mining communities remained across the county.