Miner or Free Miner? (General)

by Jean Herbert , Leeds Yorkshire, Monday, November 26, 2007, 01:05 (6210 days ago)

As a Yorkshire lass, living in a previously thriving Coal Mining area, I expect I should know what the difference is between a "Free Miner" and a "Coal Miner" but I don't. Could someone explain the difference and was this term applied only to the Forest of Dean and surrounding areas or any people working in the industry? I have also come across several mentions of women working in the Mines. I had initially suspected that it was a mistake on the census entry but am coming across this occupation for women too many times for it to be an error. Anyone any ideas? Jean Herbert