Monday 10 March 2008

Our industrial history - more than just winning coal


Not many people know how deep was the involvement of Neath, Aberavon and their hinterland in industrial developments, nor how far back the involvement goes.

A new heritage trail announced by the European Route of Industrial Heritage organisation includes Neath Abbey Ironworks as well as Aberdulais Falls and the mining museums at Afan Argoed and Cefn Coed.

Herian (Heritage in Action) has produced a superb illustrated pocket booklet, which should be available in your nearest museum, National Trust visitor shop and a few other places from today. Ordnance Survey grid references of all sites are given.

Only the old woollen mill in Neath Abbey is neglected. However, it is represented anonymously, in that one of the machines in the National Woollen Museum at Newcastle Emlyn was originally sited by the Clydach.

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