Handen Hold Heritage

A new book called “Handen Hold Heritage” by author Dorothy A. Rand was launched on Wednesday 9th July 2008, at West Pelton Primary School, Twizell Lane, West Pelton.

The book is described by the author as being a collection of memories and historical information taking the form of a scrapbook rather than a definative account of the collieries history.

Those who are observant, will notice that the banner spells “Handen” as “Handon”, the reason for this is revealed in the book.
The cost of the book is expected to be around Ł10.

Copies can be obtained by contacting the author direct at:

Dorothy A. Rand.
11, Industrial Street,
Pelton,
Chester-le-Street,
Co. Durham.
DH2 1NR.

or

Keith & Maureen Potts.
8, Edenfield,
West Pelton,
Stanley,
Co. Durham.
DH9 6SR.

Tel: 0191-3700828

The new Handen Hold Banner.

The Collieries of Beamish

A new book entitled “The Collieries of Beamish” has recently been launched by author Garry O’Hagan.
The book covers the collieries of Beamish Mary, Beamish 2nd Pit (now rebuilt at Beamish Museum) Handen Hold, the Alma (at Grange Villa), Twizell and East Stanley and focuses on the geology and history of the area, the machinery and mining methods, together with what a miners life was like during the heyday of the coal industry. The book displays around 120 pictures/images and is priced at Ł12.95.
A recent book signing was undertaken at “The Bookcase” Front Street Chester-le-Street by the author who was born in Stanley, but now lives in Perth, Australia.
Copies should still be available at “The Bookcase” or by calling 01207-284010.

Family Photographs & How To Date Them

This is a new book by author Jayne Shrimpton, which could prove to be an invaluable source of reference for those who find themselves involved with trying to place an accurate date on old photographs.
The book covers photographs taken in the decades from the 1850’s to the 1940’s, with each section being introduced with a description of the type of photographic equipment being used and the general fashion applicable at that time.
The book then goes on to provide photographic examples along with descriptions of the clothes they are wearing and even the type of hair styles in use, as well as providing pointers on what to look for to help with the difficult task dating a photograph as close as possible.
The book is published by “Countryside Books” and priced at Ł12.95.

Published 15th May, 2008.

Website at: www.countrysidebooks.co.uk