Category Archives: Welsh language

When Wales was the envy of Russia

Posted on December 9, 2014 by bookvolunteer

To those of us who find it hard to resist the opportunity of wandering around a graveyard, a headstone will often offer a personal, privileged glimpse into largely undocumented lives. This inscription marks a grave in St Mary’s churchyard, Newport, Pembrokeshire. John Morgan, a … Continue reading →

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Menna Gallie – For when you’ve read your Dylan Thomas

Posted on November 25, 2014 by bookvolunteer

We are nearing the end of Dylan Thomas’ centenary year. I hope that all fans have re-read ‘Under Milk Wood’ a few times in these past months and now have a little gap in the reading schedule before reminding themselves … Continue reading →

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Siop y Sgwar (or acquired taste 2)

Posted on October 7, 2014 by bookvolunteer

Have a look at this! You don’t have to go to Reykjavik to see the glorious potential of paint and corrugated iron. Maenclochog’s Siop y Sgwar glows at the centre of the village and invites you to stop, admire its bold presence and get … Continue reading →

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Nothing wins hearts like cheerfulness

Posted on September 30, 2014 by bookvolunteer

For the story behind this piece of fused and painted glass, click here. While you are visiting the artist’s website, make sure you have a look at the other wonderful glass pieces as well her paintings of Pembrokeshire. Linda Norris’ … Continue reading →

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What did the Sea Captains from Dinas do with their money?

Posted on August 22, 2014 by bookvolunteer

The first thing many of them did was to build a house and change the shape of the village. Dinas had originally been sited in the bay of Cwm yr Eglwys, where all the land was owned by large land … Continue reading →

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The bus shelter at Yet y Bontbren (or Teenage passion c1955)

Posted on July 25, 2014 by bookvolunteer

Have a good look at this bus shelter because it will soon disappear and be replaced with something much more modern and probably flimsier. Before it’s demolished, however, we should celebrate its beginnings and give thanks for the community spirit that … Continue reading →

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Questions it’s too late to ask

Posted on July 11, 2014 by bookvolunteer

Of course I was excited to find a photo of my Uncle Davy George with his class at Dinas County Primary school. Here he is in about 1928, standing with his arms crossed in the back row – fourth from … Continue reading →

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How long have you had your surname?

Posted on May 13, 2014 by bookvolunteer

I have been wondering why most of the common Welsh surnames end with an ‘s’: Jones, Edwards, Davies, Harries, Philips, Evans, Howells, Thomas, Williams, Owens, Hughes, Roberts, Jenkins, Stevens, Lewis, Richards and more. This observation lead me to think further about … Continue reading →

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Bethan’s cawl

Posted on May 9, 2014 by bookvolunteer

Cawl (broth) has been part of the staple diet of Wales for centuries and this recipe* has pedigree. It’s the real thing, handed from mother to daughter 70 years ago and cooked in West Wales for generations. And like all … Continue reading →

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Who are these people?

Posted on April 15, 2014 by bookvolunteer

Can you help us identify the people in this photo? These men were deacons of Tabor Baptist Chapel, Dinas Cross, Pembrokeshire, and the photo was probably taken in the early years of the twentieth century. I know that Stephen George stands … Continue reading →

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Welsh Ships and Sailing Men

Posted on April 1, 2014 by bookvolunteer

I have bought this delightful book and shall be adding it our collection. What a treat! Just the thought of it sitting expectantly on our shelves, should tempt you down to Tegfan to read it. J Geraint Jenkins, who was … Continue reading →

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Did this legendary PR man for the Church in Wales really exist?

Posted on March 14, 2014 by bookvolunteer

St Brynach was a sixth century monk who earned his sainthood while socialising with royalty and travelling extensively both in mainland Europe and on the route which is now the A 487 between Fishguard and Nevern. He’s not exactly a … Continue reading →

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