After the Second World War, coal mining had become a crucial industry in the UK. Known as black diamond, coal was being used to power trains, factories and power stations up and down the UK, and Fife was one of the richest areas for finding it.
Coal is found in layers underground and is typically mined in tunnels. After the war, coal couldn’t be mined fast enough and going down the pits was a family affair. Many children who worked long hours underground in the wet and darkness often had deformities from the lack of sunlight, nutrients or from carrying the coal to the surface.
Accidents were common with individuals being crushed, falling to their death or flooded. Gas was an ever present worry and canary birds were sent down the pit to check of its presence. If the bird died, poisonous gas was airborne and measures had to be taken quickly.
Continue along the road.
It is hard to imagine now, but this road was never originally built for cars but instead as a tramway during the height of the coal mining industry. Constructed between 1904 and 1906 by the Wemyss company to transport their workers to the pits that ran along this stretch of coastline. The tracks ran from Leven town centre all the way to Dysart, a total of around eight miles. These tramways offered the ability for the workers and public to get around the area quickly.
As you go around the trail, tap the ‘previous’ and ‘next’ arrows to move between points. The picture at the top of the page is shows you where you should be.
If the map does not show your current position when you click “Show My Location” , check your phone browser setting and allow Location.
If there’s more than one of you with a smartphone, you can use the What3Words app to help you navigate. It’s free to download – type in the what3words location, tap “use compass” and it will help you find your way. Though remember, this will point to the exact location, not necessarily following the right path, so use the map on each page to help you.
