Sinking started in 1855 but definite opening and closing dates are unknown.

[2] Once the pit was closed down the village suffered, losing its school and chapels, and several rows of housing were demolished.

[3] Between this point and the millennium the Working Men's Club also closed down, with rumours of a new owner or new housing being built before the building burned down around 2002 due to arson.

New housing was built in its place leaving Oakenshaw without a club or pub.

The village is home to a large public open field at one end of the village, it runs parallel to New Row and boasts a small football pitch and playing area.