The National Coal Mining Museum for England is set to mark a decade of remembrance at its Memorial Garden with a special commemoration event on Saturday, 17 May. The event will bring together those who have purchased a glass check for their loved ones over the past ten years, offering a poignant opportunity to remember the dedication, hard work, and camaraderie of coal miners and their communities.
The Memorial Garden, a tranquil space for reflection, is home to a unique art installation, ‘Lives Lived, Lives Lost’, by renowned artist Stephen Broadbent. This striking Corten steel screen, almost three meters high and curving gracefully, displays personalised glass checks for visitors to honour those who contributed to the mining industry.
The glass checks, handcrafted by glass artists Gary and Annette McMillan, are made by fusing layers of glass in a kiln, with personalised text embedded into each one. Available in a variety of vibrant colours, these checks serve as lasting tributes to miners and their families, creating memories that will endure for generations.
Lynn Dunning, CEO of the National Coal Mining Museum for England, said:
“Our Memorial Garden holds a special place in the hearts of those whose family and loved ones are celebrated here. It’s a place for remembrance, reflection, and cherishing happy memories. At the National Coal Mining Museum for England, we aim to share the rich history of coal mining, which includes honouring the incredible individuals who worked underground and dedicated themselves to the industry.”
The commemoration event will include a reading of the names of those memorialised on glass checks, accompanied by music, poetry, and moments of reflection, making it a deeply emotional occasion for all involved.
By purchasing a Memorial Glass Check, visitors not only create a lasting tribute but also contribute to the upkeep of the Miners’ Memorial Garden and the ‘Lives Lived, Lives Lost’ sculpture. Donations help preserve this space, ensuring that the legacy of coal miners is honoured for future generations.
For more information on how to purchase a glass check and support the Memorial Garden, visit www.ncm.org.uk/donate/miners-memorial-garden/.
