Gresford Colliery documents head for Wrexham in first for The National Archives

The National Archives is set to commemorate the 91st anniversary of the Gresford Colliery disaster with a special display at Wrexham Library on 22 September 2025. This significant event, which claimed the lives of 266 men and boys, remains a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by the mining community in Wrexham and the surrounding villages.

The disaster occurred on 22 September 1934 when an underground explosion followed by a devastating fire engulfed the Gresford Colliery, resulting in a high number of casualties. Most of the victims were local miners who had tirelessly worked to extract coal from deep within the earth. The Gresford Colliery was known for its high-quality coal, and the men who worked there took great pride in their work. However, on that fateful day, tragedy struck, leaving families and the entire community in deep mourning.

To honor the memory of those who lost their lives in this disaster, the National Archives will be displaying records and documents related to the Gresford Colliery disaster. These artifacts not only provide a historical account of the event but also serve as a reminder of the courageous miners who risked their lives every day to support their families and contribute to their communities.

The displayed records will include personal diaries, newspaper articles, photographs, and letters, all of which shed light on the human stories behind the disaster. These accounts are a testament to the bravery and resilience of the miners and their families during such a difficult time. They offer a glimpse into the lives of these mining communities and the impact that the Gresford Colliery had on the local economy and society.

Moreover, this special display also aims to recognize the efforts of the rescue workers who risked their lives to save as many miners as possible. Despite facing numerous challenges such as poor ventilation and visibility, these brave men worked tirelessly to reach their trapped colleagues. Their courage and selflessness deserve to be remembered and honored.

The National Archives’ display will also highlight the improvements made in coal mining safety standards following the Gresford Colliery disaster. This event acted as a wake-up call for the industry and led to the implementation of stricter safety regulations. Today, we can proudly say that measures have been taken to ensure the safety of miners, and the number of accidents and fatalities has drastically reduced.

The Gresford Colliery disaster remains a tragic chapter in the history of Wrexham and the mining industry. However, it is also a reminder of the resilience and strength of the local community. The National Archives’ display is an opportunity for us to pay tribute to the lives lost and to honor the spirit of those who survived this catastrophic event.

We invite everyone to visit Wrexham Library on 22 September 2025 and take part in this important commemoration. Let us come together to remember, reflect, and pay our respects to the victims and their families. Through this display, we hope to keep the memory of the Gresford Colliery disaster alive and ensure that their sacrifices will never be forgotten.

In conclusion, the National Archives’ display on the 91st anniversary of the Gresford Colliery disaster is a poignant tribute to the lives lost and a reminder of the importance of remembering our history. We hope that this event will not only educate people about the impact of the Gresford Colliery but also inspire us to appreciate the sacrifices made by the mining community. Let us honor their legacy and never forget their contributions to our society.