OUR HISTORY

In the 1950s, whilst reporting on the ironstone mine closures, Tom Leonard, a local newspaper reporter, became acutely aware remains of the ironstone mining industry were rapidly being lost. He collected all the memorabilia he could.

In 1978, the Museum was founded to house Tom’s collection and to celebrate the legacy of the industry through the preservation, conservation and display of related artefacts, photographs and documents.

The Tom Leonard Mining Museum opened to the public in 1983 and later became Cleveland Ironstone Mining Museum.

Rebranding as Land of Iron, the museum reopened to the public in 2023 following a substantial redevelopment project. Thanks to National Lottery players, and the support of The National Lottery Heritage Fund, £2.3 million was invested to create a museum fit to celebrate the monumental impact our area and people had on the world.

Our Vision

• To preserve and promote the ironstone heritage of Cleveland and North Yorkshire through Land of Iron (Cleveland Ironstone Mining Museum)

• To become a leading centre for industrial heritage research

• To provide lifelong learning experiences that supports the needs of visitors, learners, and the community

• To contribute to people’s health and wellbeing, create jobs, and promote tourism across Tees Valley and North Yorkshire

• To be a nationally and internationally recognised organisation

• To provide a safe and accessible place where everyone is welcomed and represented