Our latest display at Heanor Library focuses on the export trade of just one company, G. R. Turner’s of Langley Mill.

The company was first established in 1874 by George Turner. They specialised in rolling stock and also in specialist mining equipment. While most of the items they produced were for use in this country (and they made thousands of coal trucks), we have recently acquired quite a few photographs (from the 1900s to the 1940s) showing items headed for export all over the world; destinations included South America, Africa, India and China.

It is amazing today to think that one relatively small company in Langley Mill had such an international customer-base.

In addition to the export models, we have included one photograph which features a three-hopper ore wagon built for Stanton Ironworks in 1940.

The display can be seen at any time when the library is open – pop in and have a look. And while you’re there, check the local history shelves – it’s amazing what you can find there.