Coal Mining in the Afan Valley
Last updated: 30 November 2006
During the 1950s the Afan Valley was still driven by the coal industry. Here we take a glimpse underground at the conditions that the men worked in.
If you enjoyed this slideshow, take a look at our
Digging Up The Past Gallery, capturing shots taken over several decades.
If you'd like to view over 6,000 photographs from the Afan Valley, the exhibition these pictures are taken from is housed in Bethania Chapel, Cymmer. It's open on Saturdays from 1 pm to 6 pm and during the week by prior arrangement. For more details, contact David Teague (01639) 850552
Take a look at a project which commerates the industrial past of the Afan Valley -
Sculpture Trail Slideshow.
your comments
We're making some changes to the sites shortly and although this form will be closing, you will have other opportunities to contribute on our new-look site.
Ron Lyttle from Porthcawl
How wonderful to see this picture of many work pals from the '50s. Some of the faces I can't put a name to, but the following might stir memories for other old workers: Standing, L to R. 1.Dai Rees Jones, 2.Dai Williams, 3?, 4.Charlie Osborne, 5 & 6 ?, 7. Handel Price, 8.John Hughes,Snr., 9, 10 & 11, ?. Kneeling, L to R. 1. Will Richards, 2 & 3? 4. Baden Smout, 5.Billie Williams - the rest, I'm afraid, I can't remember!
Wed Apr 29 14:20:03 2009
Suzanne from Stratford upon Avon
My Grandfather, Alfred Thomas Harris, worked at Glen Hafod Colliery. When he left, in 1937, he was given a bureau with a metal plaque on it, showing it was a gift from his colleagues at the pit. My father, John Harris, from Port Talbot, still has the bureau.
Tue Jan 23 08:51:59 2007
Did you or any of your friends or relatives work in the Afan Valley mines? Do you recognise any of these people/locations? Add your comments here.
