How did a young coal miner from County Durham come to serve in a bomber crew flying missions over Germany during the Second World War?

Join local historian and 'The Time Traveller' Martin Peagam for From Pit Boy to Bomber Boy, part of Land of Iron's Tom Leonard Lecture Series. Through family and social history, discover the remarkable journey from the Durham coalfields to wartime aviation.

Event details

• Date: Thursday 26 November 2026

• Time: 6.30pm–8pm (doors open at 6pm)

• Location: Land of Iron, Mill Lane, Skinningrove, TS13 4AP

• Tickets: £5 per person, plus online booking fee

• Booking: Advance booking recommended. Places are limited.

• Under-18s: Must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Book tickets for From Pit Boy to Bomber Boy

From the coalfields to the skies

The story begins in the mining communities of County Durham.

Martin will explore how and why families migrated from Wales to the Durham coalfields, what everyday life was like in a pit village, and the demanding realities of working underground.

The talk also examines the role of mining communities during the Second World War, including wartime occupations and the circumstances that could lead a young miner into military service.

From life underground to missions high above Germany, Martin traces the experiences of a young man who became part of a bomber crew, placing his personal story within the wider history of the conflict.

He will also explore the controversial strategy behind the bombing campaign, bringing together questions of industry, military service and the human experiences of war.

About Martin Peagam

Martin Peagam is a local historian and speaker known as 'The Time Traveller'. Drawing on family and social history, his talks explore the people, communities and events that have shaped our past.

About the Tom Leonard Lecture Series

Land of Iron, based in the historic ironstone mining village of Skinningrove, explores and preserves the rich industrial heritage of Cleveland and the communities shaped by it.

Our ongoing Tom Leonard Lecture Series brings historians, researchers and guest speakers to the museum for a varied and ever-changing programme of talks. From local industrial heritage and social history to wider historical events, the series offers opportunities to discover new stories, explore different perspectives and connect with the past.

Keep an eye on our What's On page for upcoming lectures, events and activities.

Land of Iron’s programme of events and activities is made possible thanks to The National Lottery Heritage Fund and National Lottery players.