Hi Irene, I am researching the Hyett/Hyatt family from the F.O.D. and three of our Hyatt family including my great grandfather were miners who travelled north to Stoke-on-Trent to take up coal mining jobs in 1854. I wonder if some of the coal seams ran out around this period of time? Incidentally I have a Hannah ( Anne ) Hyett b 1813 circa who married a Samuel Meek b 1801 b Upton Bishop in Herefodshire if this is any use to you. The family were living in Newnham in 1851 with their six children including a William Meeks? I'd also be glad to hear of any local history done on the mining industry in FOD. Regards John Donaldson Stoke-on-Trent Staffs In a message dated 09/06/01 08:01:50 GMT Daylight Time, [email protected] writes: << I have read with great interest the correspondence re miners moving north. I have been researching the origins of William Henry Meek born Stinders, East Dean in 1854 (and his brother) who moved north to the Durham coalfield by 1881. William Henry was a boot and shoe maker but his father William was a coal miner. I don't know if the brothers came north to work in the mines but it seem likely. Does anyone know if there was a specific reason for the migration from the Glos. mines or was it just a general mobility on the part of the miners. I'd be glad to hear of any local history done on the mining industry in FOD. I'd also like to hear from anyone else researching Meeks there. Irene >>