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In 1540, John Leland, the famous traveller visited Wigan.
He noted early coal mines in the area: "Mr. Bradshaw hath a place caulled Hawe (Haigh) a Myle from Wigan. He hath founde moche Canal like Se Coole in his Grounde very profitable..."
"Canal" or "cannel" was a very efficient, clean coal which burned with little waste.
By 1742 the River Douglas had been made navigable and coal could be transported to Tarleton at the mouth of the River Ribble. From here it was taken down the coast to Liverpool on larger, sea-going vessels.
In 1774 the Leeds-Liverpool Canal superseded the Douglas Navigation so increasing the accessibility of the new urban markets.
This led to a rapid increase in the number and size of mining operations in Wigan and a large rise in the population of the district.
The advent of the railways in the 1840's led to the demise of the water transport.
To read about conditions in early Wigan mines click here.
To read a statement made by an eight year old "trapper" click here.
To read about the opening of the Leeds Liverpool Canal click here.
To read about possible Roman coal mining click here.
Article by Adrian Morris