| Administrative History | The first pit in Blackwell was sunk in 1871. It would later be known as Blackwell “A” Winnings Colliery. A second pit soon followed, being sunk in 1872-1873, which was later known as Blackwell “B” Winnings Colliery. In the late 19th century the Company expanded its range, first by sinking a pit at Alfreton in 1885 and then buying Shirland Colliery in 1888. It also purchased Sutton Colliery in 1899. The company amalgamated with the Nottinghamshire based New Hucknall Colliery Company in 1944, becoming N H & B Collieries Ltd. The new company's pits were soon transferred to the National Coal Board as part of the nationalisation of the coal industry in 1947. |