Blue Plaque Scheme Launched
A major celebration of world-famous famous events, people and places in Rhondda Cynon Taf has been launched through the Blue Plaque Heritage Trail.
Relatives of historically-important individuals, local historians, residents of well-known buildings and members of various voluntary organisations who have been involved in the scheme met at the Rhondda Heritage Park to officially launch the exciting new initiative.
CYCLIST REMEMBERED: The family of world champion cyclist Arthur Linton. Pictured are Alan Williams, Jayne Calvert, Karen Nelson, Elaine Nelson and Linda Morgan
They were able to view an exhibition of all 30 sites in the county borough as yet unrecognized for their historical background. The Blue Plaques which will be placed on those locations in the coming months were also on show, much to the delight of the many guests.
DOCTOR IN THE HOUSE: Elaine Nelson with the plaque to Dr Teddy Morgan which will be installed on her own house in Agents Row, Abernant
The event was opened by the Mayor of Rhondda Cynon Taf, Cllr Margaret Davies who was introduced by the Council’s Heritage Officer John Harrison. Eminent local historian David Maddox also gave a fascinating insight into the history of the county borough and the way in which so many individuals have played prominent roles in the formation of today’s local communities.
HISTORIC: David Owen of the Maerdy Archives with the plaque to Castell Nos
For almost two years Rhondda Cynon Taf Council’s Libraries & Museums Service has been working closely with various voluntary organisations and individuals to determine the 30 sites.
HOMEOWNER: Lesley Goldsmith of Y Pwysty, Llantrisant
Due to £49,200 of Heritage Lottery funding, the project has set out to identify icons, events and buildings, culminating in the placing of blue plaques to commemorate their history and achievements. A series of articles appeared in the local and national press along with television and radio coverage to encourage people to nominate their own site.
FILM STAR: Jean Rees of Tyntyla Road, Llwynypia with the plaque to her late brother, the actor Donald Houston, which will be placed on Thomas Street, Tonypandy
Following consultation with community representatives and historical societies, an audit was carried out to catalogue all existing memorials, statues and plaques in Rhondda Cynon Taf. People, places or events which already have a plaque commemorating them are ineligible for a Blue Plaque, as are anyone who died less than 10 years ago.
More than 180 nominations were received and representatives of historical societies in each area met with Council officers to undertake the unenviable task of deciding which areas will receive the Blue Plaques.
CHAPEL MEMBERS: Lady Margaret Ford and Derek Ford who own Cymmer Chapel where Evan Roberts once preached
With so many historical buildings and events from colliery strikes, riots and even pioneering cremations in the county borough’s history, coupled with being the birthplace of a vast array of celebrities from the worlds of music, sport, cinema, literature and the political arena, the decisions were taken after a lengthy consultation process.
FIRST LADY: Labour Party Hero Elizabeth Andrews will be remembered in the scheme. Pictured are her great nieces and nephew Audrey Griffiths, Elaine Thomas and Phillip Smith
The placing of the Blue Plaques over the coming months will allow residents and visitors a clear understanding of the sheer wealth of culture and heritage on offer in the county borough. Individuals will be able to follow a heritage trail through Rhondda Cynon Taf, following sites that many local and wider communities are unaware of.
RHONDDA FIGURE: Robert and Carol Harris of St Stephen’s Avenue, Pentre with a plaque for Rhondda first MP which will go on their home
Mayor of Rhondda Cynon Taf Cllr Margaret Davies said: “The support from community organisations, especially historical societies in offering advice on the merits of each nomination has been massive and together we have managed to decide on 30 locations evenly spread throughout the whole of county borough to receive one of the Blue Plaques.
TRUST US: Llantrisant Town Trust’s Assistant Clerk John Berry and historian Noel Israel with the plaque for the Guildhall in the town
“With the development of a Blue Plaque Heritage Trail visitors will be enthralled by the sheer wealth of history we have to offer, while many long-time residents will also be surprised at the importance of buildings near their own homes.
COMRADES IN ARMS: John Lewis, Secretary of Pendyrus Male Choir and Frederick O’Brien, Secretary of Treorchy Male Choir with their plaques.
“We have an incredible heritage in Rhondda Cynon Taf and one which we remain justifiably proud of. This is our opportunity to showcase the people, the places and the events of our county borough to all those individuals who live in, work in or visit Rhondda Cynon Taf.”
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Last revised on: 9/12/2008