The National Mining Memorial Centre was opened on 7th September 2013. The space allows people to conduct remembrance ceremonies or their own private remembrance and to mark the impact and contribution of all those who worked in the mining industry. Although there are various memorials to the mining industry, communities and individuals through Scotland, there has never been a single space dedicated to remembering them until now.
The space is open to anyone who wishes to reflect on those who worked in or lost their lives in the coal mining industry. There is an opportunity for them to record names and memories of anyone or anything they wish to be remembered. It also contains a small amount of interpretation about the danger of mining and the ways in which various people strove to improve conditions over many decades. It is a space for contemplation and learning and will be used in the future to host relevant events and temporary exhibitions.
The National Mining Memorial Centre spans three floors of the old washer building, revitalising space which has been unused and derelict since the Lady Victoria closed in 1981. Work was carried out by Purcell Architects who have over 60 years experience in evolving some of the best loved buildings in the UK and abroad and John Dennis Construction who have been involved with the museum for many years.
The project was funded by The Association of Independent Museums, Biffa Award National Heritage Landmarks Scheme, The Mining Institute of Scotland, The Mining Institute of Scotland Trust, The Scottish Coal Industry Special Welfare Fund and the Friends of National Mining Museum Scotland.