From the mid-1700s to the 20th century, thousands of mining horsesβknown as pit poniesβlived harsh, hidden lives underground in coal mines. Many were born, worked, and died without ever seeing sunlight. These remarkable animals, from small Shetlands to strong Shires, hauled heavy coal wagons through narrow, low-ceilinged shafts, often pulling up to eight at a time. Despite the suffocating darkness and tough conditions, they developed an incredible memory and instinct, knowing their routes and even recognizing when their workday was over. This haunting chapter of industrial history finally ended in 1972 when the last mining horse, Ruby, was ceremoniously retired. Their story is a solemn reminder of the hidden sacrifices that fueled an era and the loyalty and endurance of animals forced into brutal labor.
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