The official opening of Lerche shaft !

Official opening of Lerche shaft at 29.09.2002 !

These pictures are taken during the open day at Lerche shaft in Hamm-Lerche (Germany). This shaft was sunk deeper for about 300 metres and will be used for bringing the miners and material underground to a depth of about 1300 metres.

Just like during the 100-years anniversary of Ost colliery the open-day's organization was excellent and the weather was wonderful, as well. Bright sunshine and crowds of visitors rewarded the effords that were made to organize this day.

Please click on the photos' small versions in order to enlarge them and to get the corresponding background information. ATTENTION: The pictures' explanations can now be found UNDER the large versions.


A work of art at the entrance.	The reason for the celebrations.	The sun shines through the tower.	Crowds at the pit bank.


An interesting lectern.	Thick ropes are used to carry the pit cages.	The pit cage's four levels.	Lerche shaft's hoisting machine.


The raffle of underground tours.	Transportation at the surface.	Often heavy machines are required.	The refrigerating plant.


Strong pumps at Lerche shaft.	The pumps from a bit closer.	Water cooling.	The colliery's band performs for the guests.


A solo player with his trumpet.	A total view of the miners' band.	Still a long queue at the raffle.	Behind the refrigerating plant.


The tower covers the autumn sun.	The tower as a whole.	The top of the "golf club".	A view up the tower - impressioning.