MUSEUM OF THE MINE AND SHAFT OF GLÉNONS

For almost two hundred years, coal was the main resource of the town of La Machine. Its exploitation, controlled after 1865 by the Schneider et Cie company, led to the drilling of shafts to depths of 700 meters, the construction of several workers' housing estates and the recruitment of hundreds of "gueules noires".
When the last shaft closed in 1974, many miners wanted to preserve the memory of their trade by creating an educational, pedagogical and captivating site. Open since 1983, the Musée de la Mine comprises two complementary sites:
*The Musée de la Mine, housed in the former administrative headquarters of Les Houillères, recounts the history of coal and the lives of miners (the bottom, the snack bar, the dramas, leisure activities). The museum houses objects, photos and models deposited by former miners. You'll also find the directors' office, a large plan room, a model of the town, collections of minerals and fossils found underground, a collection of miners' lamps and an evocation of working-class housing.
*The Puits des Glénons and its mine gallery showcase the harsh working conditions of miners, women, children and animals. This unique, easily-accessible space, animated by guides, describes the skills used to extract coal, support techniques and safety. Lights and helmets are provided for the visit.