Glamorgan History Society in Swansea

Origins and Mission of the Society

Founded in 1950, the Glamorgan History Society was established to promote and encourage the study of the history of the old county of Glamorgan. Originally known as the Glamorgan Local History Society, it adopted its current name in 1966 to reflect its broader focus. The Society serves as a hub for both professional and amateur historians, fostering original research that often appears in its journal, Morgannwg. Through its activities, it aims to deepen understanding and appreciation of Glamorgan’s diverse historical legacy.

Publications and Educational Activities

Central to the Society’s work is the publication of Morgannwg, a scholarly journal that features articles on various aspects of Glamorgan history. The Society also organizes an annual Autumn Day School, which offers lectures and workshops that delve into specific historical themes and topics relevant to the region. These events provide opportunities for members and the public to engage with historical scholarship and local heritage in an interactive setting.

Location and Community Role

The Society is based at 87 Gabalfa Road in Sketty, Swansea, a suburban area that situates it within reach of the city’s academic and cultural institutions. While it is a specialized historical society, it plays a significant role in the local community by safeguarding the history of Glamorgan and promoting cultural interest in its traditions, industries, and social history. The Society also collaborates with other local history groups and archives to support research and public history initiatives.

Historical Context of Glamorgan

Glamorgan, historically a county in South Wales, has a rich and varied past shaped by its industrial heritage, cultural developments, and social changes. The area includes Swansea and surrounding regions known for coal mining, pottery, and maritime trade. The Society’s work helps illuminate these historical narratives, connecting contemporary audiences with the legacy of Glamorgan’s communities and landscapes.

Research and Membership

Membership in the Glamorgan History Society offers access to a network of historians and enthusiasts dedicated to the region’s history. Members contribute to ongoing projects, participate in meetings, and benefit from resources that support genealogical and local history research. The Society encourages the exploration of Glamorgan’s past through original research, archival work, and public engagement.

Preserving Glamorgan’s Heritage for the Future

As a custodian of Glamorgan’s historical heritage, the Society plays a vital role in preserving knowledge and fostering interest in the region’s past. Its activities ensure that the stories, traditions, and historical records of Glamorgan remain accessible and relevant to future generations, enriching the cultural fabric of Swansea and South Wales.