The former agricultural villages of Ryhope and Silksworth expanded rapidly in the latter half of the nineteenth century as the previously hidden coal seams were exploited. This volume traces the changes and developments from the time when 'coal was king' to the present, when it was only a memory.

This collection of over 200 old photographs illustrates the story of working folk and the events of the two villages over this past century. The book shows the old streets, shops, pubs, churches and schools. We see people at work, at leisure and in sport. Ryhope and Silksworth collieries are featured and the stories of miners recalled. The images also show the community's struggle for better conditions in a harsh working environment.

The majority of the photographs have been collected by Jim Pace over the past thirty-five years from donations by local people. It is to the residents of Ryhope and Silksworth, both past and present, that this book is dedicated.