An old mining term for the stable hand or ostler who looked after the horses and ponies working underground. They fed, groomed, and managed the animals in the subterranean stables, ensuring they were fit to haul tubs of coal or ore along the tramways.
Heard on the job
The fettler needs three more bales of hay sent down the shaft before the next shift starts.
Insider tip
As mechanization replaced animal haulage, the term faded from active mining use, though it survives in railway maintenance for track workers.
Also heard as
- ostler