your comments
Karen smith nee Harkin Edinburgh
My grandad, Silas John Giddings was apparrantly from Glyncorrwg, and had a lot of relatives. I remember visiting a couple of them about 20 yrs ago, Jean, who I think is his sister or sister-in-law, and another who I believe was a brother.
I can't remember where that was but I remember there was a river running at the bottom of the very large corner-style garden. My grandad was married to Jesse, and they are both now buried in Cymmer. I would like to know a lot more about my grandad and his/my relatives...
My mother's name was Lorraine Giddinigs and her sister was Heather there is also Darryn. Unfortunately, my mother and Heather have passed away too, so would like as much info as possible about my family. Thank you.
Tue May 26 16:52:33 2009
Brian Walker East London
Does anyone remember my family, the Holmes, who lived in Avon Street, Cymmer and later in Heol y Glyn? All my uncles and my Granddad worked in the pits (Nantewlaeth Glyncorrwg and Caerau). Grandad and Uncle Ben died in the mines and Uncles Will, George, Stan and Arthur suffered from Miner's lung. On a recent visit to Cymmer, memories of better times came flooding back, Gazzi's chip shop, the Cosy Cymmer cinema and nights of song in the Farmer's Arms. Incedentally, I have seen photos of the Haulier's Wedding.
Tue May 26 16:25:44 2009
Pam Price (nee evans)
I spent many happy holiday in glyncorrwg (early 60S} with Annie Lewis and the Davies tynpant farm we are trying to do a family tree my grand father was born in baxter terr and then moved to glynneath and became a manager of a colliery
Mon May 11 10:53:51 2009
Stephen Rogers London
I have fond memories of Glyncorrwg spending part of my summer holidays there in the 50`s. My mother Lily Stephens was one of seven sisters who lived in Dunraven Street up till 1931 when my grandfather was blacklisted by the collieries and had to move to London - also my great grandfather ran the horse-drawn brake between Glyncorrwg and Cymmer. Has anybody any recollections of them?
Tue Mar 31 11:02:30 2009
Beth Dansey (nee Wilcox) - Kent, England
Does anyone remember the Wilcox family who lived in Tunnel Terrace, Abergwynfi? Particularly Thomas Wilcox and George Wilcox, both worked in the mines and we are trying to find out what caused the injury that Thomas ultimately died from.
Tue Mar 24 16:16:14 2009
Ken Smith Kingston -upon-Thames, Surrey
I lived at 1 Arther Street in the Gwynfi, went to school there and then to Cymmer School, worked at South Pit, and was down there when it blew up, left to go into HMF in 1956, went back to visit last August and walked the hills of my youth, will never get Wales out of my blood, nor do I want too, my accent is still strong and I'm proud of it.
Fri Mar 20 12:56:47 2009
Ceri Syner nee Lewis
I lived in Treharne Road Caerau until I was 20. I now live in the Chilterns with my husband and two dogs, both my sons have flown the nest.
I can still taste the ice cream from Sidoli's and the fresh bread from the bakery in Caerau Road. I went to Bleancaerau school and don't really have fond memories of my time there.
I do recall Miss Jones, who told us all in Class One, typical welsh weather day, that if we did not pay attention to our studies we would end up in Revlon, with rollers in our hair and a fag hanging out of our mouths!
Wed Mar 11 18:53:00 2009
Paula James, Port Talbot
Hi I'm looking for any information on my great grandfather Thomas Carter he was scalded fatally whilst working in Caerau colliery on 23rd Feb 1924. Please help any information would be useful.
Mon Feb 9 14:52:39 2009
Margaret Elward Bridgend
Does anyone remember my father who worked in Dyffryn Rhondda Pit for over thirty years? Emlyn Roderick Lewis, he lived in Maesteg all his life.
Mon Feb 9 14:00:22 2009
Tina Evans , Paignton Devon
Great site to visit. I lived in the same house as Fred Hayman - 21 Afan Road. I lived there from 1961 to 1986 my father was Mal Evans and worked the pit and also the quarry for a man named Tudor. Before we lived at no 21 we lodged in Duffryn...my Dad now lives in Neath.
Mon Jan 26 15:55:21 2009
Eira /Watford
My uncle Dai Hopkins came from Abergwynfi. I lived in Caerau and remember Mrs Morts' children used to say 'Mrs Morts warts' for the batter off the fish - they were lovely, 1d a bag and fritters 1d each and lovely rissoles.
Fri Jan 16 10:55:02 2009
PAULA BATES, ABERGWYNFI
Anyone know Charlie Evans of the cape he was my grampa he died about 22 years ago.
Wed Jan 14 16:20:00 2009
Ian Pearce of Port Talbot
Hi to Julie Smout maybe you won't remember me but we were in the same class at school.
Mon Dec 1 11:23:20 2008
Jane Sanderson of Berkshire
My grandfather Brindley Richard Morgan worked and lived in Maesteg at 7 Llydwth cottages? Not sure of the spelling. My nanna was Maggie Morgan and they marched to Slough in October 1936 in the hunger march. I am proud of my Welsh heritage.
Wed Nov 19 15:03:06 2008
Robbie Powell, Alberta, Canada
Lots of great photographs, and lots of names I remember from the village.
I lived at 8 Tunnel Terrace, some of my neighbours were Frankie Loveday 5) and Barbara Thomas (6), who if I remember married either Dai or Rennie Smout.
I also lived at 22, Commercial Street, opposite the Pithead Baths, and regularly on a Saturday morning I would hear the miners singing in the baths. I recognise so many names from the postings, bringing back many fabulous memories.
My parents were Alf and Gwennie Powell, brother Malcolm and sister Marlene. My wife is Anne Swansbury (from High Street.) Hi Anita Day, how are you?
Mon Nov 10 10:37:20 2008
Anita Day (formerly Griffiths)
David Read I remember you well. You lived opposite my aunt and uncle Mr and Mrs Winchcombe, who kept Scottie dogs. You were in my class in school and I have the school photo. Blaengwynfi has changed a lot but it's still the best place to call home. If ever you visit again please feel free to call.
Mon Nov 3 15:16:46 2008
Jacqui Long
Does anyone remember Charles Clare or William Stephens who worked in the pits in either Cymmer, Porth or the Albion Pit Cilfynydd? Charles Clare married William's daughter Ellen, my great grandmother at the Porth Primitive Methodist Chapel in 1906?
Mon Oct 20 10:08:03 2008
david jones blaengwynfi
I grew up in Tunnel Terrace. I was born in 1944. I have three brothers, Keith, Michael and John and two sisters Margaret and Victoria. My father was Dai Lloyd the buses and my mother was Doreen. My brothers worked in the pits Keith (large) an John. I followed my father's footsteps an drove the buses. It's good that people still hold these memories as i still live here. It's nice to see all the differences an brings back a lot of memories.
Mon Sep 29 16:15:00 2008
melanie talbot from york
I lived in Croes erw Cymmer - I was known as melanie stokes. I lived at 13 Penamynydd Croes erw Cymmer. I lived there with my parents Raymond Stokes and Catherine Stokes formally Arklass. I am trying to find information on my great grandfather John Stokes, he was born in 1876, I think? He could have served in the First World War. I know he died in 1943 if anyone has info for me please contact me and let me know.
Also if anyone has info on my grandfather Daniel stokes he was born in Blaengwynfi 1912. I know they also lived at 26 Pennamyydd Croes erw Cymmer. He married my grandmother Hannah Mary Stokes formally Morris of Aberdare 1916, and she sadly passed away in 1973, if any one could help as I am working on family history it would be great...
Mon Sep 15 15:35:13 2008
Anne Rides, Cardiff
Where I lived in Cymmer Road Caerau;at the corner of Church Street there was a lamp post where all the children used to gather there. I remember my brother, Huw Thomas and his friend Tony White from George Street, who was always eating toast under the lamp post; made a poem up and chanted these words: "Tony White had a fright in the middle of the night. He saw a ghost eating toast half way up the lamp post." When I think of our house we then lived in it brings back happy/sad memories. And where is Tony White now?...Huw is living in Garth now.
Mon Sep 15 14:27:16 2008
Nicola, Rhondda
My grandmother was born in and lived in Cymmer, her name was Elizabeth Hunt(1909). Her mother's maiden name was Elizabeth Williams and her father's name William Hunt. My grandmother married Watkin Phillips and set up home in Alban Terrace but she died in 1940 in childbirth. I have not been able to trace the family history. Can anyone help please.
Mon Sep 1 12:54:41 2008
Doug Giddings , Porthmadog
Darryn, I can remember two cousins in Scotland, they used to visit Jean in Glyncorrwg, one was known as Harry, I believe, so long ago, I used to see a lot of Terry, from Croeserw .
Fri Aug 15 16:14:08 2008
Brenda Smith New Zealand.
I have only recently found this site. I was born and lived in Caerau, and do remember Morts Fish Shop, also the first Sidoli's cafe in Caerau Road. Also the great faggots and peas from Horn's fish shop in Coegnant Rd. Also the Sat night dances in the Caerau library. Lovely memories. I lived in Victoria St and then in Coegnant Rd. My father worked in Coegnant Collery till he retired at 60 and joined us in N Zealand His name was David (Dai)Horton.
Fri Aug 15 16:09:37 2008
Darryn Giddings, Bristol
my father silas john giddings lived in glencrog if ive spelt it right .he then moved to edinburgh for the rest of his life.he is now sadly buried in cymmer
Mon Aug 4 15:35:17 2008
Doug,Giddings , Porthmadog
I was born in Glyncorrwg , and lived there until 1967 , my father , Si.Giddings worked in the Signal Box , I was married there , and have , many times regretted leaving the Village. A wonderful location
Fri Jul 25 15:16:16 2008
Anne Rides (neeThomas) from Cardiff
Great contributing to your site once again. I often tell my grandchildren about Mrs Mort,who had the best fish and chip shop in Caerau Road and not forgetting 'Peglers' who sold biscuits that came in a clear topped tin that was displayed on the front of the counter; and how embarrassing it was to ask Bennett the Butcher if he had a pig's head for my mother to make brawn. Life was so unhurried in the '50s and '60s. Can anyone remember those shops?
Tue Jul 22 11:03:49 2008
Dr Julian Tudor Hart & Mary Hart
Thanks for an excellent website. I was a GP in Glyncorrwg from 1961 to 1987, and worked there for another 5 years continuing research for the Medical Research Council which began in 1974. Mary led our research team, which from time to time included Evelyn Thomas, Cath Edwards, Pam Gant, Maureen Greenland, and Pam Walton, as well as a succession of doctors, three of whom went on to become university professors...We had a great life. I think our best time was from 1961 to 1970, when South Pit was still open, because in those days there was so much more life on the street. Still I didn't have to work underground.
Tue Jul 22 11:02:25 2008
Keith smith Port Talbot.
Hello Connie. Of course I remember you and your parents too, Uncle Hubert. Eddie living on Gwynfi Sq. Memories come flooding back...I think we must be the last of the line who remember those days, except maybe for Howard in N Zealand, who was home in Wales for a visit a few years ago but since returned.
Mon Jun 2 13:40:40 2008
James Dawkins. Skewen
My grandfather was Walt Dawkins and he worked in Dyffryn Colliery during the war and after before having to retire early due to dust on his lungs. He loved working underground and never found another job which gave him the same camaraderie. He also captained Caerau Athletic Football Club - I have a photo of them winning the cup in 1945. Anyone remember him or related?
Tue May 27 14:10:22 2008
Selwyn williams. Staffordshire
What a wonderful site. I was born in Glyncorrwg. My Father Will Williams worked at South pit and North Rhondda pits. I remember waiting for the steam train to bring the miners down from the pit to the station in Glyncorrwg. I also remember the fear in my mother's eyes as the hooter from the pit sounded and she realised there had been an accident there.
Thu Apr 17 09:46:32 2008
Patricia Williams, Scotland
My father was from Blaengwynfi. His name was Philip Williams. My grandparents were William Thomas Williams and Beryle Williams. I have lovely childhood memories of holidays spent with my grandparents in Blaengwynfi. Since my grandparents died I have never been back to Blaengwynfi.
Tue Apr 15 17:18:27 2008
Maureen Monday of Kent
Does anyone remember my grandfather John morgan Jones, usually called Jack? He lived in Melyn St and was active in the South Wales Miners Federation. He died on 23 December 1946.
Tue Apr 15 10:05:57 2008
tony thomas(cyprus)Ex glyncorrwg
Wendy, your grandfather was in the lamp room in the final days of the pit - I remember him well - and Peter Phillips. I also worked withe Lowe gaffer - Billy Lowe fitter, and Erny Lowe, washery fitter.
Wed Apr 9 12:40:42 2008
Jean Howells Port Talbot
My grandfather was John Andrews he worked at Dyffryn pit and lived in Nantybar. He died at the age of 53 at about 1953. I dont know why people have fond memories about coal mining it was back breaking hard work and men died young in my view men had no other alternative but to work in coal mines. It put food on the table. Men died young or from slow deaths due to dust and it scarred the beautiful South Wales valleys. Good riddance to coal mines. Lets hope they never make a comeback because it will take a very long time for the scars of coal mining to fade and the beautiful landscapes to ever recover.
Wed Mar 19 09:33:51 2008
Wayne Davies of Glyncorrwg
I remember Barbara Robinson (Australia). We were in the same school at Cymmer Afan, also her brother worked for butcher Howard Reed Abergwynfi. I also worked with her brother-in-law Tony Cockings, if you read this, hope you and your family are doing alright in Australia.
Mon Jan 14 09:09:42 2008
Sarah Elward Glyncorrwg. port talbot.
I have a photograph of a hauliers wedding. The horse was led by my grandfather, Sam Edwards, Glynncorrwg, who worked all is life in South Pit. He was a man who loved singing, he and a friend Will Evans were known as the two Es, those days will always be cherished by me.
Fri Jan 4 10:13:49 2008
Julie O'Neill, Maesteg
I was born and raised in Maesteg, and still live here. My grandparents had a bakery in Station Street, Vic Buffry, and I well remember on Christmas Day people would be queueing up to have their turkeys cooked in the ovens. The usual payment, I believe was a tot of whiskey or something similar. I also recall hearing the colliery hooters and the plod of the miners feet making their way to catch the colliery buses early in the morning. Sound and sights, most of our children can only imagine.
Thu Jan 3 10:51:37 2008
Wendy Thomas from Glyncorrwg
My grandfather Mr Idris Phillips worked up South Pit. I am not quite sure what his job was, but I know he always had his dog Prince with him who I believe saved a man's life. It's lovely to be able to view this site.
Mon Dec 31 11:21:55 2007
Elizabeth Edmonds (Lloyd) Bridgend.
Hello Connie Pickin (Smith) I do remember you taking me to Sunday School, great to have your message. Also hello to Yvonne Powell (Mort).I still go up the Cape to visit my uncle Roy (Llan) Lewis. It will always be home. Merry Xmas to you all and a Happy, Peaceful New Year.
Thu Dec 27 11:29:23 2007
Connie Pickin (nee Smith), Neath Abbey
Marvellous site, full of nostalgia. Hello to: Elizabeth Edmonds (nee Lloyd). Do you remember me I used to look after you and take you to Sunday School?
Stephen Smout, Sydney, Australia: nice to read about your father Eddie. My father (Hubert Smith - Banksman at Afan) spoke very highly of your father. Please pass on a big hello.
Dennis Jones, Toronto, Canada.Do you remember me? I lived next door to your grandmother (Jones No.4) and a few doors down from your grandparents (Hunt No.11) Lost touch with Annie about 3 years ago.
Keith Smith, Port Talbot.Yes I remember Emilys Fish & Chip Shop. Do you remember me? (Cousin from Western Terrace).
Our neighbour discovered the Afan Valley a short while ago and told us it was a place we must visit! We said we know it well and he asked what we were doing living around here.
Tue Dec 18 10:30:39 2007
Keith Smith Port Talbot.
Does anyone from the "cape" and beyond remember my Auntie Emily Jones's fish and chip shop at 92 Jersey Rd? My Uncle died before I was born, so never knew him, but Auntie remarried John Jones who had a cobbler's shop next to the fish and chippy.
They were both well loved in the valley, and when I was a kid I used to love spending the weekend in Gwynfi, usually eyeing spuds down in the basement after they came out of the electric peeler, or making a general nuisance of myself. Her son Jack became a councillor and moved out of the Afan Valley to the Llynfi. Peggy, her daughter, stayed in Gwynfi up till her death.
Thu Nov 8 10:05:53 2007
Gwyneth Bailey nee Williams, Essex
My father was born in Jersey Road, Blaengwynfi, in 1912 - Trevor Williams, father Richard ['Dick Check'] Williams and Sarah nee Price. 'Dick Check' was brother of Ceridwen Williams mentioned by Leigh Canham below. My father and his family left the valley in the 1930s, but their hearts stayed there. I have visited Blaengwynfi in the past few years and met some of my father's extended family. Thank you for the memories on this site.
Thu Oct 18 11:47:39 2007
GRAHAME SMOUT
My father, Dai Smout worked in the Afan, along with his brothers Eddie and Rennie. These pics are fantastic and represent how hard life was back then. We don't know we're born.
Mon Oct 15 11:27:32 2007
Barbara Robinson Abergwinfi 1950
Now living in Australia I have fond memories of moving to the Graig Houses and having to walk to school in the snow..Mother Olive, father, Wilfred (Robinson).
Thu Aug 23 16:18:56 2007
Philip Loveday, Bridgend
It was strange to some of the old photos of the Afan valley as I had left in 1968 to join the armed forces. Black slag tips and very little green, now it is worth coming home to see the greenery.
After moving from Jersey Road to Heol Treharne in the Graig just outside Gwynfi then further away from home. It was strange to see so many names that have left the Afan for fields afar and still remember the valley as if it were yesterday.
My brother Jeffrey Loveday lives in Glyncorrwg now and YES Jeff it does bring back some wonderful memories of all the carnivals and fete that we used to attend. Myself more as a member of the Gwynfi Silver Band all them years ago.
Lets hope the valley's new image keeps improving for the better and not back to the dark days.
Mon Jul 23 09:58:41 2007
Jean Burley(nee Owen) Eccleshall Staffordshire
I loved browsing this site. I have very fond memories of growing up in Blaengwynfi. Just one small point of information - The photo of Egypt, my father and the Queen was taken at the Royal Show in Newton Abbott in 1952. The Queen is dressed in black as her father had died in February of that year. It was the year before her Coronation.
Mon Jul 9 10:43:07 2007
Steffan Hughes
My mother Madge Kinsey was born in Blaengwynfi in 1910, her mother was Katherine Kinsey also borne in Blaengwynfi in about 1880 I think. My grandmother's maiden name was Katherine Jones and she had seven brothers and sisters. Their names were Daniel, Thomas, David, Johnnie, Annie, Letisha (Tish). All lived in Blaengwynfi for many years. I visited the village in the 1950's and 60's and remember it well. Does anyoee remember the family?
Fri Jul 6 13:21:12 2007
Beverley Fox - Derby
Just found out my father Cornelius Crowley came from Glyncorrwg born in 1917. Came across this site and found it really interesting to find something out about the place where he was born. Unfortunately he died while I was a teenager so I never got to ask him about his birth place etc.
Fri Jun 15 17:56:28 2007
Pete Phillips, Caerau
My grandfather Will Lowe, (married to Sarah Jane Cosker Abergwynfi) and his brothers' Ernie (married to Gladys) and Billy (married to Marlene - nee Jenkins of Nantyfllon) all worked at South Pit.
My Uncle Cecil Harris (married to Margaret Cosker) worked at Nantewlaeth. Will and Ernie lived in Heol y Glyn, Billy lived in Glyncorrwg.
My Grandfather (father's side) Philip Phillips worked at St Johns Colliery Maesteg - he lived with his parents at 15 Queen St, Maesteg. I am presently researching dads side of the family, Philips Father was called John, but I am stumped for his mothers name! I remember spending all my school holidays in the Afan Valley, to me it was the biggest playground in the world!
Tue Apr 17 13:00:00 2007
Fred Hayman from Cornwall
Born in No 21 Afan Rd Duffryn Rhondda,in 1938, went to Duffryn school, Family name Beak worked for AHS part of NCB, now living in Cornwall, another celtic love of mine.
Mon Apr 16 10:29:32 2007
Freda Lewis, Bridgend
I was Freda Clift. Born and bred in Abergwynfi with my brother Roy. My father was Alfred Clift and my Grandfather was Fred Clift. They all worked in the Afan Colliery, Abergwynfi. My father-in-law, Dick Lewis also worked in Afan Colliery. Even though I moved to Bridgend over 25 years ago, I still go back to visit friends in the "Cape" and that's where my heart still lies.
Mon Mar 26 09:46:52 2007
sarah crellin New Jersey
My mother Jean Rogers was born in Maesteg 1931 and her parents ran the Coytrahen Arms in the 40's. My great aunt Florence Price (nee Rogers) ran 'The Garn Inn' does anyone remember them?
Mon Mar 19 15:16:11 2007
Beryl from Essex
Sandra Reynolds (Shaw) you must have married Colin Reynolds who had a sister called Julie. I hung around with Colin and his sister Julie on my summer holidays in Glyncorrwg. Well your in Scotland now! I trust you've kept your accent!
My grandmother lived in Cymmer Road also. I do miss those hills! One could walk for miles as long as you followed the sheep tracks you knew you would be safe. My grandfather was a bricklayer in the pit and the Treasurer of the Miners Hall but alas I never knew him as he died when I was 2 with the miner's disease.
Did you ever go to the pictures at the Miner's Hall and then in the break go down to Bevan's to get an ice cream or whatever - well perhaps not, but those were the days. Oh and Sidolis sold the best ice cream this side of Italy. Glyncorrwg is where I felt at home.
There is one thing though, I think we must have been the only house in Cymmer Road with an outside toilet I envied your parents inside bathroom Colin!
Mon Mar 5 09:28:54 2007
Yvonne Powell was Mort
Hello Elizabeth Edmunds was Lloyd - its Yvonne Mort (now Powell) it was nice to see your name here.
Fri Feb 23 15:40:01 2007
Sandra Reynolds (Shaw) ex Glyncorrwg
My family moved from Scotland to Glyncorrwg in the early 1960's. My mum, dad, three brothers and two sisters lived in the village until 1974 when they moved to Shetland. I stayed on as I had married Colin Reynolds of Cymmer Road. We left after our first son, Gafyn, was born, when we too moved to Shetland. My dad, George Shaw, worked in South Pit all of my growing up years. Glyncorrwg was a super place where everyone was your auntie or uncle. Reading through the comments I recognise an few names, Adrian Reynolds, my brother-in-law, and John Apple.
Tue Feb 20 14:43:59 2007
Julie Smout
I lived in Blaengwynfi most of my life, my father David Smout worked in the Afan Pit. My mother and father still live in Blaengwynfi and so does my brother Grahame. Me and my sister both moved away. Seeing the photos brought back loads of nice memories. xxx
Tue Feb 20 08:35:31 2007
David Read, London
What a trip down memory lane. And it is heart-warming to know what wonderfully fond memories people hold of their early lives. I have just retired and am gathering the memories for a family-only biography, lest it all be lost, as my rather pampered children have not the remotest concept of how hard life was in the early 50s in the valleys.
I was born, and lived until I was 7 years old, in Margaret Terrace in Blaengwynfi, but a few years after my father, who worked in the Afan colliery, died my mother took her three children, in 1954, to England which is probably the sole reason why I suspect I am the only Blaengwynfi child ever to get an Oxford degree, even if it wasn't from the "Welsh" college, - but I should be delighted to be proved wrong.
Childhood memories, especially if unhappy, are apt to be somewhat erroneous, and although I remember playing in the tar and pine scented pithead, was quite unable to site the spot when I visited a few years ago. It was sad to see the church in such a sorry state and although I thought the primary school was nearby could find no trace of it even though the infants' school down the hill was instantly recognisable.
There was a garage and a little shop at the bottom of Margaret Terrace, both of which have now disappeared, opposite the green (now built on) where a real "gypsy" fair with old fashioned caravans would appear from time to time. There was also no trace of the large home-made swimming pool above the village which was provided by damming the river...
Fri Feb 2 10:46:23 2007
Eileen Spenceley, Charlottesville Virginia USA
I found your web site by accident it was very nostalgic reading about places I use to visit when I was evacuated to Maesteg as a young pre teen in WW11. I was forunate enough to have my grandmother living in Maesteg. My father was already in the army before the outbreak of the war so in essence I was an army brat. I spent many a Sunday afternoon just walking in the mountains.
Thu Feb 1 15:33:18 2007
Leigh Canham ex Blaengwynfi
My grandfather Meredith (Jobie) James worked above ground in the colliery in Blaengwynfi. He was the husband of Ceridwen Williams and they had a shop in Jersey Road. My mother is Sylvia. My father was Ken Canham, son of Jim Canham (Cardiff) and Blodwen Waters (Blaengwynfi). My mother's sister, Marilyn, still lives in Jersey Road with her husband Terrance (Jamsie) James. I haven't been to Blaengwynfi for years, this message board has reminded me I should go soon! Thank you.
Wed Jan 24 11:27:40 2007
Leigh (Jimmy) Canham - Ex Blaengwynfi
Hello again Bob Thomas, Glasgow
My mother explained to me earlier that your father was the brother of Peggy. My family and your Aunt Peggy (Peggy Machen) Thomas were great friends. We used to call her aunty Peggy when we were kids. Lovely she was.
Mon Jan 22 09:09:00 2007
Les Davies, Perth, Australia
I was brought up in Duffryn Rhondda and worked as an apprentice in Duffryn Colliery. I knew Harold Price and I think I know Dai Morgan. My family were up to their neck in the Afan Valley mines. My Dad, Eddie Davies, Grandad, Thomas Rees Davies (Twm Lampey), my Uncle, Dai Thomas and other uncles at various times worked in Duffryn. D.W.Jones was once manager of Duffryn and was my uncle. My other Grandad, Ned Thomas, worked in Nantewlaith. I know Apple from school. I could go on forever about the Afan Valley and the wonderful people that lived and worked there.
Thu Jan 11 12:25:33 2007
Bob Thomas, Glasgow
I was born and brought up in Blaengwynfi. My mother was Betty Scotch and my father was Ivor Thomas[Capers]. I left Blaengwynfi when I was fourteen and a half.[1953] My mother returned to Scotland. I still go back and see some old friends and relatives.
Tue Jan 9 16:37:40 2007
David Thomas Stokes
Having lived in the Afan Valley for almost 72years, worked in most of the collieries then with the Social Services Dept, I think I know a little about the area. Which is one of the loveliest areas in the country. Played in the silver band, and became the first Neath Port Talbot County Councillor...
Fri Oct 27 09:25:42 2006
Caroline Harris - Staffordshire UK
I'm the daughter of Jean Owen and one of David Owen's grand-daughters. (Also sister to Richard Burley). It's lovely to see this picture of my grandfather. He was such a lovely man and it makes me feel so proud to see these images.
Mon Oct 23 09:49:33 2006
Richard Burley (son of Jean Owen)
The photo of the Queen and "Egypt" at the colliery were wonderful finds for me. They both feature my grandad David (Dai) Owen. I was immensely proud of my Grandad and have the photo with the Queen in my office at home. I found this site as I'm planning to visit Blaengwynfi next week with my children; Sian, Owen and Evan.
Fri Oct 20 14:40:11 2006
David Morgan - Formerly of Duffryn Rhondda
Does anyone remember OLGA the engine that used to steam up and down past Duffryn Colliery in the nineteen fifties and sixties? My grandfather Harold Pryce was a foreman in the washery in Duffryn and used to wave to us kids in the village from the top of the building.
Mon Oct 9 09:36:44 2006
Graham Thomas, Maesteg ( formerly Blaengwynfi )
For your information "Gallery 17"
To give a more accurate date with regard to the photo of Afan Colliery in the late fifties.
In the background you can see a box shaped building which is the British Legion Concert Hall extension ,which was opened in 1963.
Tue Jun 6 08:54:43 2006
Brian Walters from Port Talbot
My Memories of this valley, was as a steam engine fireman. Working the passenger trains. Taking the miners to the pits located in the valley. My grandfather was a miner at Glyncorrwg. He lived in Tonna, in the Neath valley. He got to work by walking across the mountains to the pit.
Thu Apr 27 09:57:04 2006
Stephen Smout, Sydney, Australia
My family lived in Abergwinfi. My father Eddie Smout worked in the pit - I showed him the pictures about the Afan valley, it made his day. He said the pit pony Egypt could not pull your hat off, as a pit pony was only good as a show pony. My grandfathers and uncles worked in the pit as well
Thu Apr 27 09:54:53 2006
Tommy Watkins from gwynfi
I worked down the mines myself, I was brought up in bleangwynfi. There's nothing better than looking at old photos of the village, it brings back so many memories
Fri Apr 21 16:13:26 2006
Elizabeth Edmonds(Lloyd) Bridgend.
I was born and brought up in Margaret Terr Blaengwynfi opposit the Afan Colliery. My father worked there before and after the war until its closure in 1968. I have fond memories of waiting for him to come home at the end of his 'shift'The colliery site is now a football pitch and playing fields, a Surgery and Dr B. Gibbons's house
Thu Mar 23 12:55:06 2006
Ann Wilkins Merthyr Tydfil
I was born and brought up in Glyncorrwg my father Cameron Jones better known as Dai worked in South Pit first as a fireman then as an overman ,his brothers also worked there Bryn and Bill. I am glad to see that there is a lot more going on in the village these days
Wed Mar 8 06:10:59 2006
Michael Loveday
My family was from the Afan Valley. My father was an accordion player there, besides that he was a coal minier himself. When I was young where the t.v was black and white, sometimes my father would play the accordion. One time I can remember was when I had chicken pox, I could not go out to play with me mates and my father would sit on my bed playing the accordion. I love my father as well as my mother they where great people.
Thu Jan 26 12:40:06 2006
Howard Henson -- Swansea
My Grandfather Robert Seeley worked I believe in the Duffryn Colliery, my uncle Howard Seeley was so I was told when I was a boy, the first child born in the terrace row that overlooked the works. My Grandfather lost both his legs in a mining accident? Can anyone remember him?
Tue Dec 6 12:50:52 2005
Ivor Fenton Perry Leicestershire
My mother's family worked in the mine at Glyncorrwg; my great uncle Richard (Dick) Duke was killed there in an accident and is buried in the churchyard, together with his brother Tom who worked as a miner all his life. My Grandfather Fred Duke was injured while working as a blacksmith in the mine and then left South Wales about 1934. My great grandfather James Fenton was also a miner at Glyncorrwg. The village and, more importantly its people and their courage, have great memories for me.
Sun Dec 4 23:05:52 2005
Adrian Reynolds, Shetland
I was born in Glyncorrwg, my father and his brothers all worked in South Pit and my Grandfather in North Rondda. I now live in Shetland and rarely see the valley. Thanks for the site it brings back memories.
Wed Nov 30 21:39:37 2005
Jeff Loveday, Glyncorrwg,
I now live in Glyncorrwg, not a lot of the old mine left now. They have now turned the old railway line into a mountain bike trail. My parents were from Blaengwynfi where my father worked in the collery there and played in the silver band. What memories the site brings to us all.
Mon Nov 14 21:09:06 2005
Brinley Williams - Sittingbourne Kent
I was born in Caerau, and lived in Treharne Rd. All of my fathers family worked in local mines-Maesteg Deep, Caerau south pit, Duffryn, and Coegnant.
Altogether spanning three generations. My father was killed in an accident in Caerau colliery in 1944. I have few happy memories of my childhood-seeing young men dying of " the dust" slowly- will remain with me always.
Tue Nov 8 01:19:28 2005
Sandra Jones from Herefordshire
My grandfather and uncle worked in South Pit Glyncorrwg Elfyn Daniel.
Sat Oct 8 23:31:53 2005
Anne Rides (nee Thomas) from Cardiff
Hi,it was great reading and contributing to this site once again. My uncle Evan Davies from Blaencaerau Rd, Caerau, worked in Caerau Colliery, right up until it's closure. The 'hiraeth' will stay with me always as I remember' the gone but not forgotten' collierys of South Wales.
Sat Oct 8 01:17:21 2005
Anne Rides, Cardiff
I was brought up in Caerau (Cymmer Road)I have fond memories of living there. My late father Arthur [shad] Thomas worked in Dyffryn Colliery. I have memories of him coming home black with coal dust before the pit head showers were installed.
Wed Jun 8 02:29:59 2005
Andy Joyner from Cardigan
I have just come looked through a pile of old postcards my neighbour has. One of them is this exact same and identical photo (smoke is same, people same etc). However you say the photo dates from the 1930s - you may be interested to note that the card is postmarked 1907.
Mon Jun 6 13:05:10 2005
Ken Smith
I worked at South Pit, from the time I left school. I lived at Blangwnfi and also at Cwm Cas. I left the pit when I was 17 and went into the forces. I was down the pit when the Panzer Div blew up, and helped carry out the injued, not good days for the workers, but a place where pride and poverty went hand in hand. I remember the women standing by the front doors, holding out their aprons on pay day, and the men throwing the wage packets into them. I have many more memories of those days, some good some bad, but it give me steel in order to withstand lifes challenges.
Fri May 27 07:42:56 2005
Sue Wells nee Phillips, Bendigo, Australia
Most interesting to read about the Caerau mines, as my Grandfather Richard David Phillips worked in one of those mines. My father David Philip Phillips was born at home at 28 Caerau Rd, Caerau and I believe that's where the family originated. Many thanks.
Sun Apr 17 02:37:30 2005
Dennis Jones, Toronto Canada
Brings back wonderful and treasured memories. I was born in Blaengwynfi. I have pics of the old steam train pulling into the railway station, will look for them and post them to the site. Vivid memories of standing on the platform in the rain, mesmerized by that monster (I was only a little boy) belching steam and smoke. My grandfather’s brother worked in Glyncorrwg perhaps Don or Tony Thomas may have known him his name was Hunt.
Tue Mar 29 02:32:12 2005
Bernard Garland
Noticed Dan Lewis (B.C.Canada) who worked in Pwllbach.
Wonder if that was the same time as myself, Ken Walker, Randall Garland etc?
If so Dan then get in touch.South West Web Team - Dan if you'd like to get in touch with us, we can pass your details onto Bernard.
Sat Mar 12 16:48:10 2005
Rob Vincent from Maesteg
I was brought up in Caerau and worked in Caerau and St Johns Colliery as an electrical engineer. I was also on strike during 1984. It's great to see some of the old photographs, I am currently writing a book on mining called 'Arthur for Prime Minister' this includes facts and photographs that have been compiled by myself. Has anyone any ideas on putting this to print?
Finally, the pits were hard but it gave people employment, wages, pride, respect and discipline -something that is lacking in parts of our society.
Word of warning - many countries are slowly stopping exports of coal and I have been reliably informed from various sources that coal will be definitely on the energy agenda very soon and the Margam mine at Pyle will be producing coal in 2008 - you heard it first here.
Sat Mar 5 13:46:36 2005
Tony Thomas ex Glyncorrwg
I worked at South Pit from 1955 until 1973. What a great pit to work in, at the moment I am looking at some old photos of collierys in South Wales.
Wed Jan 5 14:39:13 2005
Brian Thomas ex NJ now Florida
Apple, my cousin, Myra may still has the photograph of the Hauliers Wedding. Don, I also worked in N.Rhondda from 1956 until it closed.
Wed Dec 29 05:35:23 2004
Don Thomas, West Vancouver, Canada
There was another mine in Glyncorrwg called "North Rhondda", my father,who was born in Cwn Cas, was office manager there for 35 years. His mother was a teacher at Glyncorrwg National School, and was paid a salary of a penny per ton of the coal mined in the village.
Fri Dec 10 08:15:47 2004
John Williams (Apple) Lincolnshire
I am too young to remember "the hauliers wedding" but there are pictures of it in Afon Argoed Miners Museum. My father was the groom (Bob Williams)and the bride was Idris Thomas both from Heol-y-Glyn.
A horse amd dram were borrowed from Nantewlaith Colliery, the flanges were cut off the wheels and it was pulled around the street by the horse in a local carnival.
Fri Aug 20 08:33:36 2004
Dan Lewis - B.C. Canada
I worked at Pwllbach colliery 1955, I was in the
blacksmith shop for a few years before
being sent underground. The picture of Egypt
brought back some fond memories and a
bit of hiraeth.
It would be nice to see some more pictures.
Thu May 27 17:07:15 2004
caroline in cowbridge
i'm teaching a mini history unit on mining with my primary aged class so the pictures are really super to find - a good visual source
Thu May 6 23:34:23 2004
Brian Thomas, New Jersey, USA
A really nostalgic site. I was born & brought up at Heol-Y-Glyn, Cymmer, opposite Nantewlaeth Colliery where my grandfather worked until his retirement.
Wed May 5 23:16:02 2004
][This comments form is now closed
