The Mining Industry in the Huddersfield District
By D. A. Wray

INTRODUCTION

The comparatively modern town of Huddersfield lies at the confluence of the Colne and Holme valleys, and along the eastern edge of the Millstone Grit moorlands. To the east of the town, the Coal Measure series gives rise to a plateau of fair altitude, with a considerably diversified surface. The town doubtless developed in the first instance primarily as a meeting place or market at the convergence of several routes leading from the hills; though the subsequent development was very largely influenced by the presence of coal and other mineral wealth in its immediate proximity.

In regular succession, the several seams of coal and fireclay crop out in the hills to the east of the town; and in the past they have been extensively worked. Rather more than half a century ago Huddersfield occupied a relatively important position in the coal industry. At the present day all the more profitable seams of coal have been worked out, and the centers of the industry have consequently gradually progressed eastwards. The history of the development of the mining industry from the earliest times onwards constitutes an interesting story, and may well serve as an illustration of the vicissitudes that have more or less overtaken the whole group of towns lying along the western fringe of the coalfield.

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