We delved deep into the Sunderland Echo archives to find these 19 images from the pits of the Wearside area.
From canteens to pit cages, ponies to winding gear, we have got lots of reminders of a huge industry.
Take a look and if you have more memories to share, get in touch and tell us more.
Take a look and if you have more memories to share, get in touch and tell us more.
5. The magical million at Wearmouth
Faceworker Ian Mardghum with a shovel full of the millionth tonne of coal, watched by workmates from Wearmouth's G82 coalface. Remember this scene from 1990?
Photo: Sunderland Echo
6. A great result for Easington Colliery
Easington Colliery miners produced their fastest millionth tonne in 1987, a week ahead of the date when they reached the target in 1986.
Photo: Sunderland Echo
7. South Hetton pit in 1983
South Hetton Pit miners are pictured on their last day in 1983 but they had new jobs to go to at Murton Colliery.
Photo: Sunderland Echo
8. Back to 1975 at Easington Colliery
These Easington Colliery miners had plenty of reason to look happy after creating new production records in 1975.
Photo: Sunderland Echo