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Some Historical Aspects of Durham & The Tees Valley

Durham & Teesside has a huge history. From businesses to people, its impact on the history of the country cannot be denied.
Below are a few stories from the area.

Cameron's Brewery

William Waldon, a farmer originally from Gainford, founded the Lion Brewery in the village of Stranton in 1852. After Waldon's death in 1854, the brewery passed to his widow, Jane. John William Cameron was recruited to manage the brewery from 1865, he then took over the brewery in 1872. Under Cameron's leadership, the brewery grew rapidly, becoming a significant local employer and a popular producer of ales. Despite facing challenges during both World Wars, the brewery continued to thrive and modernized its facilities in the post-war era. The 1970s brought ownership changes, starting with Ellerman Lines, yet the brewery maintained its reputation for quality.

In 2002, Cameron's was acquired by Castle Eden Brewery, leading to operational consolidation and brand strengthening. Today, the brewery is known for its flagship Strongarm ale and a wide range of beers. It also operates a chain of pubs and engages in collaborations with other breweries. Cameron's Brewery remains an integral part of Hartlepool's community, supporting local events, sports teams, and charitable initiatives, thereby cementing its place in the town's social and economic fabric.

During the course of my own research, I found that my Great Grandfather, Fred Oglesby, and his Son, both worked for Cameron's as Drey Men.

Cameron's Brewery Website

Sir Christopher Furness and Furness Shipping

Sir Christopher Furness was a prominent British industrialist and shipowner, born in West Hartlepool in 1852. He played a key role in the development of the shipping industry in Hartlepool. In 1877, he established Furness, Withy & Co., a shipping company that quickly expanded its fleet and operations, making it one of the leading shipping companies in the world. Furness's entrepreneurial spirit and innovative strategies, such as investing in modern steamships and building a comprehensive network of trade routes, significantly boosted the local economy and established Hartlepool as a major maritime hub.

Under Sir Christopher Furness's leadership, Furness Shipping not only contributed to the economic prosperity of Hartlepool but also supported the local community through various philanthropic efforts. Furness was a noted benefactor, providing funding for educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and other public services. His impact on the shipping industry and the town's development was profound, and his legacy continued to influence the region long after his death in 1912. Today, Furness Shipping is remembered as a cornerstone of Hartlepool's industrial history and a testament to Sir Christopher Furness's vision and dedication.

When we bought our home in 2019, I looked into its history and found that it was actually built in the 1890s, along with the 4 next to it, by Sir Christopher for prominent staff of his shipping line.

Durham Mining: Haswell Colliery

The North East has a huge proud mining history, with its heritage and impact still felt to this day.

Established in the mid-19th century, Haswell Colliery was significant contributor to the local economy and community. Its coal production played a crucial role during the industrial revolution, fueling the growth of nearby towns and cities.

Haswell Colliery endured a tragic chapter in 1844 when it was struck by a devastating explosion. This disaster claimed the lives of 95 miners, making it one of the deadliest mining accidents in the history of County Durham. The explosion sent shockwaves through the local community, leaving families devastated and the region in mourning. The aftermath of the explosion prompted improvements in mining safety practices and regulations, as authorities sought to prevent similar tragedies in the future.

During its peak, Haswell Colliery employed hundreds of miners and supported entire families. However, like many mines in the area, it faced decline in the latter half of the 20th century due to economic changes and shifts in energy production. The closure of Haswell Colliery in 1971 marked the end of an era, leaving behind a legacy of hard work, community solidarity, and the enduring impact of coal mining on the landscape and lives of the people in County Durham. Today, remnants of Haswell Colliery serve as reminders of its once pivotal role in the industrial history of the region.

Photos on this page are displayed with the kind permission of Hartlepool History Then & Now & Cleveland Mining Heritage Society.