Barnsley Archives Unveils Historic Catalogue of the West Riding Miners’ Permanent Relief Fund

Barnsley Archives and Local Studies is proud to announce the successful completion of a long-term project to catalogue and make accessible the archives of the West Riding Miners’ Permanent Relief Fund.  

This collection is now available for researchers, historians and members of the public to access, offering a unique view into the lives of miners and their families across South Yorkshire and north Derbyshire. 

The West Riding Miners’ Permanent Relief Fund, often referred to as the “Miners’ Permanent,” was a voluntary society founded in 1877 to financially support miners who were injured and unable to work. In cases of fatal accidents, the Fund also extended benefits to widows and children.  

Items making up the collection have been carefully catalogued for the first time, creating over 1,000 separate entries. The catalogue includes minute books, annual reports, financial accounts, correspondence files, and members' records.  

Cllr Robin Franklin, Cabinet Spokesperson for Regeneration and Culture, said: “I’d like to say a big thank you to everyone involved in this project.  

“It’s important that our communities have the opportunity to learn and connect with their local history, and we’re committed to supporting this through our museums and archives service. 

“Collections such as this one give us real insight into the lives of thousands of miners and their families during a significant period in our local history. Preserving them makes sure future generations can continue to learn from and reflect on our shared past.  

“I’d encourage everyone to learn more about what Barnsley Archives has to offer, there is so much rich history to be discovered.” 

The completion of this project highlights Barnsley Archives’ ongoing commitment to preserving and sharing the region’s heritage. Members of the public are invited to explore this collection, as well as the wider services available at Barnsley Archives. 

The catalogue of the historic records can be explored online at https://www.explorebarnsleycollections.com/ 

The documents within this catalogue can be viewed, free of charge, at Barnsley Archives in the Town Hall. Further information is available on our website at experience-barnsley.com/our-archives, or contact the team at Archives@barnsley.gov.uk or 01226 773950.