In June 1856, the first load of coal was extracted from this mine. It turned out to be an exceptionally rich coal seam, and the mining operation soon expanded with several pits. The company remained active until 1989. Over the years, regular expansions and improvements were made. This coal washery, built in 1958, is one of the few remaining coal washeries in Europe. After the decline of the coal industry, such washeries were often the first to be demolished. In the Netherlands, for example, none have survived. In Belgium, the coal washery at the Beringen coal mine is by far the most famous. It has also been designated a monument. Another example of a coal washery can be found on this website under the name 'House of Escher'.