Hewer

Bundesarchiv Bild 183-50124-0003, Zwickau, Zeche "Martin Hoop", Bergarbeiter bohrend

Bundesarchiv Bild 183-50124-0004, Zwickau, Zeche "Martin Hoop", Bergarbeiter mit Schaufel

Bundesarchiv B 145 Bild-F030465-0001, Ruhrgebiet, Kohlebergbau

Bundesarchiv Bild 183-G0530-0031-001, Freiberg, Zeche "Albert Funk", Bergarbeiter bohrend

Bundesarchiv Bild 183-K0204-0004-001, Mansfeld, Bergarbeiter bohrend

Hewer is a term that historically refers to a person who hews or cuts material, such as wood or stone. In the context of mining, a hewer is specifically a worker who cuts coal from the seam in a coal mine. This article will focus on the role of the hewer in the coal mining industry, which has been a critical occupation during the industrialization periods in various countries.

History

The profession of a hewer dates back to the early days of coal mining, where manual labor was the primary method for extracting coal. Hewers played a crucial role in the coal mining process, as they were responsible for cutting the coal from the coalface. This was a highly skilled, labor-intensive, and dangerous job, requiring the hewer to work in cramped conditions, often lying on their side or back, to cut the coal from the seam with a pickaxe or other hand tools.

Working Conditions

The working conditions for hewers were notoriously difficult and hazardous. Mines were poorly ventilated, leading to a lack of fresh air and the presence of dangerous gases such as methane (firedamp) and carbon monoxide (afterdamp). The risk of explosions, collapses, and other accidents was high. Despite these dangers, hewers and other miners worked long hours for relatively low pay, reflecting the harsh realities of labor during the industrial revolution.

Evolution of the Role

With the advent of the Industrial Revolution, the demand for coal soared, leading to the expansion of coal mines and the development of new mining technologies. Over time, the role of the hewer evolved as mechanization began to replace manual labor. The introduction of coal-cutting machines in the late 19th and early 20th centuries gradually reduced the need for manual hewers. However, hewers remained an essential part of the workforce until the mid-20th century, when fully mechanized mining became the standard.

Modern Context

Today, the term hewer is rarely used in the context of mining, as modern coal extraction is largely mechanized. However, the legacy of hewers remains significant in regions with a history of coal mining, where they are remembered for their contribution to the coal industry and the broader industrial heritage.

See Also

• Coal mining
• Industrial Revolution
• Mining
• Occupational safety and health

‎