NEHL - This is the site of the Phoenix Pit, known as one of the terminating collieries on the edge of the Etherley Incline which was in turn part of George Stephenson's 1825 mainline for the Stockton & Darlington Railway. The Phoenix Pit stood at the head of the incline, and here horses were joined to the wagons for the short journey to Witton Old Colliery north.

The pit was opened by the 1840s as it was illustrated by Thomas Hair in 1844 or just before. It was sunk on old glebe land, hence the name of the farm next door, and operated by the Stobart family who developed much of Etherley and Witton Park. The Phoenix Row, a small pit settlement named Venture Row upon opening, stands as a result of the need for housing for those who worked at the Phoenix Pit. Apart from the Etherley Incline, it's the one tangible reminder a pit stood here. They were built between the 1840s and 1850s and have an incredible story which you can read here: https://x.com/neheritagelib/status/1837902096772849904

Nothing except the rows and the boundary of the working can be seen today.

"The Phoenix Pit, Old Etherley, is situated about 3 miles west from Bishop Auckland, 24 from Stockton, and 28 from Middlesbro', to both of which latter places coals are sent from this colliery by the Stockton and Darlington Railway. It was undertaken by Henry Stobart, Esq., and Partners. The Five-quarter Seam, at the depth of 15 fathoms, is 4 feet thick; and 15 fathoms below it, making 30 fathoms in all, is the Main Coal Seam, 6 feet in thickness. The Five-quarter Seam is very little wrought, in consequence of its being of an inferior quality; but the Main Coal Scam is wrought very extensively, and is an excellent coal. The drawing machine is of 20 horse power; and the water from the colliery is conveyed or drained off by a free level. The coal is shipped extensively coastwise; and considerable quantities are disposed of by landsale in Yorkshire"

Views of the Collieries, Thomas Hair (1844)