Journey back in time with me to the heart of Oignies, a coal-mining community near Lille. Here stands the Centre de la mine et du chemin de fer. It is a living museum of mining, railways, and postal history.
The Centre de la mine et du chemin de fer occupies the former Oignies No. 2 colliery. This is named after Denis Papin, a steam technology pioneer. The colliery’s headstock protrudes from the brick buildings. Coal was first discovered here in 1842. The last extraction occurred in 1990.
Inside, you’ll discover a 3800 hp steam winding engine. It was built in Mulhouse in 1932. This machine once hauled coal and miners up a 475-meter shaft. The colliery ceased operations in 1977. This powerful engine is the highlight of the mining section.
The Centre de la mine et du chemin de fer’s railway section showcases models and locomotives. A travelling post office carriage is also present. Don’t miss the Pacific 231.c.78. It represents one of France’s most outstanding express locomotives.
Since 1993, the Centre de la mine et du chemin de fer has been entrusted with restoring the Pacific 231. This locomotive has a unique history. It was built by the Cail establishments in Denain. The 231 C 78 had been preserved by the SNCF. It was stopped in 1961 after 30 years of service.
In 1938, this very locomotive pulled the British royal train. King George VI and Queen Elizabeth were on board. They were travelling to Paris to commemorate the Entente Cordiale. The locomotive was repainted blue for the occasion. The queen mother even became the locomotive’s godmother. Perhaps Prince William’s grandchildren will inaugurate it one day.
The Centre de la mine et du chemin de fer also features a large model railway. It was built by former miners. Trains at 1/32 scale run on 45 mm tracks across 200 square meters. The model represents the Oignies No. 2 mine site. The buildings are mostly made of paper and recycled materials.
The Centre de la mine et du chemin de fer offers a glimpse into railway modelling. Here, members construct almost everything themselves. They use modelling clay, pine cones, and even yogurt pots.
Each year, the Centre de la mine et du chemin de fer hosts a steam festival. It also organizes the Terrils Rando. This guided walk explores the mining landscape around Oignies.
The Centre de la mine et du chemin de fer preserves the past. It also celebrates the ingenuity and community spirit of Oignies. It is a testament to the region’s industrial heritage. As you leave, remember the echoes of the mine. Remember the rumble of the trains. The Centre de la mine et du chemin de fer keeps these memories alive.