Alongside the pits, businesses like Mansfield Brewery and the Metal Box Company earned national recognition, cementing the district's reputation for quality manufacturing and enterprise.
While the closure of the mines and the decline of traditional industries in the late 20th century delivered a blow to the local economy, it also marked a new chapter.
Today, the area is rebuilding on its heritage with a diversified economy spanning logistics, aerospace, and high-tech sectors, proving that the entrepreneurial spirit of Mansfield and Ashfield burns as brightly as ever.
Check out these 20 photos and see if you know anyone in their place of work.
2. Richard Roberts Knitwear
1985 and Kirkby's Richard Roberts knitwear factory. Photo: Chad
3. Metal Box
Mansfield Museum Metal Box Memory Day from 2010. Alan Atkins and Les Needham chat about their time at the factory. Photo: Roger Grayson
4. Romo Ltd
Sir Andrew Buchanan gets a tour around the factory floor at Romo Ltd Kirkby as they were awarded the Queens award in 2008 for International Industry. Pictured on the left is Gary Bates Operations Director far right Jonathan Mould CEO. Photo: Chad