Washington ‘F’ Pit - a chance to step back in time and explore the region’s coalmining heritage.
The pit, which was sunk in 1777, brings mining to life for today’s residents of the North East. Museum staff will be on hand to answer questions about the industry which was so important to the region.
Visitors can also see the impressive winding engine which once took pitmen to the coalface and brought coal to the surface, now operated by an electric motor.
Jo Cunningham, Manager of Sunderland Museums said,“Washington ‘F’ Pit is a valuable monument representing the importance of the coal mining industry to the North East and its residents. It is a fantastic opportunity for visitors to get a taste of what life was like for miners and their families.”
By 1870, ‘F’ Pit had become the largest coal-producing pit at the colliery. In 1947 it was taken over by the National Coal Board but by the late 1960s, the colliery did not fit in with the National Coal Board’s vision of Super Pits. ‘F’ Pit was closed on 21 June 1968 when the last coals were drawn to the surface.
The winding house and headgear were presented by the National Coal Board to the people of Washington and it remains today as a tribute to the miners and their work.
Admission to Washington ‘F’ Pit is free and the site is open seasonally.