Before the 1830s Crook was an agricultural community of around 200 residents. Towards the end of the nineteenth century it
became a town of more than 12,000 due to coal mining and the coming of the railways. Coal mining was a main industry
in the town for more than 120 years. Running alongside the coal mining was a thriving industry in the production of coke
and other coal by-products.
The pits were closed and the railway service was withdrawn by the 1960s.
Harperley Prisoner of War camp, Firtree, Crook, Co. Durham, DL15 8DX
Located on a hill above the River Wear, about 250 metres West of the A68 & A689 junction(roundabout).
Purpose built to house German and Italian prisoners of war, it was used from 1943 to 1945.
Harperley changed owners in 2001, the camp was discovered hidden underneath 2 metre high thorns & bracken. Harperley was included in the first series of the
BBC TV 'Restoration programme
which helped to obtain funding.
Attractions include the Commandants bungalow with its wartime garden, anderson shelter and livestock. Various events are held during the year, Harperley has a caravan site for tourers, also farm shop, garden, gift and country clothing shops.
A tour consists of a film showing life as a prisoner of war. The guide then shows visitors around the old canteen, kitchens and theatre hut. Currently (2007) the guided tour is the only way to view the unrestored parts of the camp. Check the official website for full and up to date details before travelling...
www.powcamp.com...
