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In the Footsteps of Alexander Cordell

This book, richly illustrated in colour, takes you into the mind and its workings of a brilliant author with a truly passionate spirit. Chris Barber includes correspondence and recorded conversations with Alexander Cordell, which for the first time show us the inner workings of the mind of a creative genius. [Read more]

The Clydach Gorge - Industrial Archaeological Trails

The Clydach Gorge, between Gilwern and Brynmawr, provides a clear illustration of the way in which economic and social factors produce continuous change in the landscape. It in fact retains surprising beauty despite its history: a lovely beechwood remnant on the south side is now protected as a National Nature Reserve, and high moorlands stretch away on the skyline. [Read more]

 

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THE CLYDACH GORGE
Industrial Archaeological Trails
by John van Laun

The Clydach Gorge, between Gilwern and Brynmawr, provides a clear illustration of the way in which economic and social factors produce continuous change in the landscape. It in fact retains surprising beauty despite its history: a lovely beechwood remnant on the south side is now protected as a National Nature Reserve, and high moorlands stretch away on the skyline. But the special character of the gorge - which makes it well worth getting to know - is in part the result of the labours of men over a few generations: rocky amphitheatres left by quarrying, massive stone arches, chapels and humble cottage terraces, with successive lines of remains of communication intricately engraved into the rock which forms the valley sides.

Ironmaking was often the motive behind the work which has left these features. Evidence remains here both of the early production processes, harnessing water power and using timber for fuel, and of later techniques developed with the exploitation of coal during the ‘industrial revolution’.

The history of South Wales is inextricably linked to that of the iron and coal industries. Less well-known, and today often less obvious, is the fact that some of the early industrial developments in Wales took place high up in the valleys and even within the area now designated the Brecon Beacons National Park on account of its great beauty.

The story of much early industry is reflected here in microcosm. That we now seek to conserve relics of an enterprising but grim past is perhaps a comment on our own ‘post-industrial’ society.

The three trails (which follow the introductory sections of this book) have been devised to visit on foot sites and routes in the valley which still give some impression of their former significance.

ISBN 9 771872 730357, Softback, 80 pages £9

IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF ALEXANDER CORDELL by Chris Barber

This book, richly illustrated in colour, takes you into the mind and its workings of a brilliant author with a truly passionate spirit. Chris Barber includes correspondence and recorded conversations with Alexander Cordell, which for the first time show us the inner workings of the mind of a creative genius.

Chris Barber demonstrates how truly great novels can only be created when there is a foundation stone of love and empathy for the characters concerned. He takes the reader on a journey through the historical background to the novels: ‘Rape of the Fair Country’, ‘The Hosts of Rebecca’, ‘Song of the Earth’, ‘This Proud and Savage Land’, and ‘Requiem for a Patriot’.

The book concludes with a summary of developments such as the performance of radio and stage p;lays, the creation of ‘Cordell Country’ and the Blaenafon Industrial Landscape World Heritage Site. It will prove indispensable to those who wish to gain a deeper understanding of Alexander Cordell’s work.

ISBN 9 781872 730127. Softback , 262 pages £12

BOOKS IN PREPARATION


IN SEARCH OF THE REAL KING ARTHUR
by Chris Barber & Davis Pykitt

ARTHURIAN WALES
by Chris Barber


HISTORY & LEGEND IN THE BRECON BEACONS NATIONAL PARK
by Chris Barber

A Gazeteer of fascinating places