The long association with coal in Bo'ness dates back 900 years to the monks at Carriden collecting it from exposed outcrops and the industry and mines that developed and in operation until very recently. Over the years more than 200 mines of various types spread throughout what is now the town of Bo'ness.
Its historical contribution was emphasised by the history of Bo'ness harbour which at one time was the most important port on the Forth both for the export of coal and the import of pit props to 'support' the growing mining industry.
The Bo’ness mining memorial was designed to stand as a monument to the past history of the contribution of coal in the development of Bo'ness and as a reminder for the community both now and for future generations.
