A short history of Nenthead
Nenthead is a small village located in the county of Cumbria, in the north of England. The village is situated in the heart of the North Pennines, an area of outstanding natural beauty known for its rugged landscapes and rich mining heritage. Nenthead, in particular, has a long and fascinating history that is closely tied to the mining industry.
The earliest recorded history of Nenthead dates back to the Roman period, when the area was known for its rich deposits of lead and silver. The Romans established a mining settlement in the area, and evidence of their presence can still be seen today in the form of ancient mine workings and ruins.
After the Romans left, the mining industry in Nenthead went into decline, but it was re-established in the 16th century during the reign of Elizabeth I. The demand for lead and silver was on the rise, and Nenthead was perfectly positioned to take advantage of this. The village grew rapidly, and soon became one of the most important mining centers in the country.
The 19th century was the height of Nenthead's mining industry, with the village becoming home to some of the most advanced mining technology of the time. The Alston Moor Mining Company was established in 1853, and soon became one of the largest and most successful mining companies in the region. The company built a number of large smelting works in the village, which employed hundreds of people.
Despite its success, the mining industry in Nenthead faced a number of challenges in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The price of lead and silver dropped dramatically, and the company struggled to stay afloat. The First World War also had a devastating impact on the industry, with many of the village's young men being called up to fight.
The mining industry in Nenthead eventually collapsed in the 1930s, and the village fell into decline. Many of the mining works were closed, and the population dwindled. But in recent years, Nenthead has experienced a resurgence, with the village being designated as a conservation area and many of the mining ruins being preserved as a tourist attraction.
Today, Nenthead is a popular destination for visitors looking to explore the rich mining heritage of the North Pennines. The village is home to a number of historic buildings, including the Nenthead Mines Heritage Centre, which tells the story of the village's mining past. Visitors can also explore the many mining ruins that can be found in and around the village, including the remains of the Alston Moor Mining Company's smelting works.
In conclusion, Nenthead is a village with a rich history, closely tied to the mining industry. From the Roman period to the present day, Nenthead has played an important role in the mining history of the North Pennines. Today, visitors can explore the village's mining heritage and discover the story of the village's past.
