Our Exhibition Galleries
Why not come and visit our free galleries to find out what the villages of the Rhondda were really about?
Our Collection
The world-famous Rhondda Valleys in South Wales once powered the world with its coal. Our collection features items from the era when coal was king - including the famous Davy Lamps used by miners to light the way through the dark underground coal pits. Some of these items have been scanned in 3D in our portable studio as part of the virtual reality (VR) immersive mine experience "Pwll Bach Cwm Rhondda". This was created by Vision Fountain as part of the Welsh Government's "Winter of Wellbeing" funding. Three of the items were scanned as part of the “Last Generation of Coalminers” project with ourselves,The Heritage Fund, & The National Waterfront Museum. View collection
Coal Society
Our Coal Society gallery is located on the ground floor. It tells the story of the people in the Rhondda from 1800 – Present Day. While some men were working in the mines, this gallery focuses on the voices of Women, our Activists and Chapels. Life was different for everyone who lived in the Rhondda and this really highlights those experiences. Using our interactive touch screens, discover why people moved to the area or listen to activist Elizabeth Andrews. Discover our interactive timeline and find out key events from the past. You can even cosy up in our parlour - an important room in most Rhondda homes.
Black Gold Gallery
Our Black Gold gallery, located upstairs, tells the sometimes harrowing story of the mining industry in the Rhondda. Here you can find out about the industrial powerhouse that was coal mining - from the coal owners to the men underground. Discover the all-important uses for coal and why it became ‘Black Gold’. Find out where our coal was shipped across the world and how there became a culture of ‘American Wales’. Most importantly come and understand the human cost of mining in the Rhondda.
Temporary Gallery
Our temporary gallery is located upstairs. This changes every 3-4 months featuring different topics from the history of the Rhondda. Our latest exhibition opens on 6th March 2024.
Coal and Community in Wales: The Miners’ Strike, before, during and after
Join us in commemorating the 40th anniversary of The Miners’ Strike as we reflect on its lasting legacy with a brand-new exhibition.
Opening on 6th March, the free to view exhibition features images by freelance photographer Richard Williams who realised from his teenage years he was witnessing the decline of the South Wales coal mining industry and felt compelled to document this tumultuous time in our nation’s history.
His images offer a raw insight into the period leading up to and just after the 1984-85 Miners' Strike. Through his lens, Williams captures the emotions and reality of mining communities, showcasing resilience amidst industrial decline.
From the poignant final years of the industry to the upheaval caused by open-cast mining, Williams' photographs paint a vivid picture, revealing the profound impact on livelihoods and communities.
Born in Bridgend, Richard is a former Pontypridd Observer and Western Mail photographer and picture editor.
Join us in commemorating the 40th anniversary of the strike as we reflect on its lasting legacy. Through Williams' lens, explore the rich history and enduring spirit of south Wales – a testament to the strength of its people in the face of adversity.
Find out more about Coal and Community in Wales here: www.richardwilliamsphoto.co.uk/miners-strike
Outside Yard
Outside in our yard area we have a host of exhibits for you to see. Why not take a look at our forge area and find out what the colliery blacksmith did and listen to his stories? We have an original Anderson Shelter and our very own ‘Dig for Victory’ garden. Or discover the machinery that was used underground and take a look at our drams of coal!