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The First Fifty Years 

Have you ever wondered how our town of Seaham was progressing 150 years ago?

In 1874 the Shields Gazette published a review setting out the progress the town had made in less than fifty years since its incorporation as a new town. The article reviews the state of the coal trade and various industrial undertakings such as the blast furnaces, chemical works, iron works, engine works and bottle works. It was reported that good wages were being earned and that, in general, the townsfolk and traders spent their money “freely and heartily.”

The town was in a healthy condition with the streets and public places presenting a clean and orderly appearance. The housing market is buoyant with no houses available to let in any part of the town and the gas works has been sold off to a consortium in the town.

The Masonic Hall recently completed on North Road with a reading room and smoke room provides a popular retreat for gentlemen. The newly completed theatre erected in the yard of the Golden Lion Inn is fitted out in a comfortable manner with balcony, side boxes and music pit and is well patronised by lovers of the art.

The Wesleyans and the Congregational Chapel have adopted the latest tradition established by Prince Albert and erected Christmas trees. Seaham Harbour Cricket Club have announced that they are to seek the services of a professional for next season and they are also taking steps to form a football club. The Engine Works have formed the “Londonderry Brass Band” and are to make their first public appearance within the next few weeks under the tuition of Mr R Tuart.

In less than fifty years since the town was inaugurated it appears that the towns progress and development could match any other town in the colliery districts.

Congregational Chapel in Tempest Road

 Shields Gazette 9th Dec 1873

Seaham Harbour Cricket Club (Photo credit Sunderland Antiquarian Society)

Theatre Royal (locally known as the "Gaff")