Coal, Custom & Today

Volunteer Colin Gibson recently exported a piece of Tanfield coal to his brother in the Masif Central, France.   Understanding the good luck stored in the gift, but unsure of first footing, the coal was simply burned.

Mme Viarnes ceremonially burning
the British export

First footing possibly started as a pagan custom of the winter solstice, continued at Christmas, was banned with other Christmas celebrations at the reformation, & so moved by northern Britons to New Year.    First footers are usually dark haired males, who are the first person to enter a house shortly after midnight at New Year carrying gifts, including coal to bestow warmth on the household.

First foot coal is available on Amazon, although we already have a supply .....

The waggon driver delivering 30 tons of Welsh
steam coal may have been Marley Hill's first foot

Delivering coal to Andrews House today

Tom taking delivery of kindling

Ian checking the point layout at East Tanfield
(photo courtesy of Ian Cowan)