WEBSITE CONTENTS

WEB-SITE
CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION

This section gives an insight into the web-site, a brief history of myself and how I became interested in the history of Fochriw. It also contains a dedication to the late Emlyn Evans and a bibliography of sources.

IN ANCIENT TIMES

This section deals with the origins of the village of Fochriw, from distant times when it may have been identified as Brohru Carn in the 12th century developing into “The holding called Fforch y Rhiw, the fork in the road” as mentioned in several Gelligaer leases of the 17 century, to Boch Rhiw Carn, Fochrhiw, Fochreiw, Vochriw and now currently Fochriw.

The story of Gwladys and King Arthur is also touched upon.

It also contains a brief description of the geological events that shaped the area into which Fochriw is placed, together with a potted version of the human history of the area prior to the great changes brought about by the iron and coal era.

THE GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT OF FOCHRIW

This section traces the growth and development of the village, including Pentwyn, Penybanc and Pantywaun, by reference to census returns of 1850 to 1901, various Ordnance Survey and other maps. Also included are memories of life in Fochriw and Penybanc and the provision of water, sewerage, electricity and telegraph services.

IRON and COAL

The development of the iron ore and coal mining industries, which were deeply linked to the Dowlais and Rhymney Iron Companies, is explored with particular reference to the collieries, levels and drift mines associated with the village and its immediate environs. Also covered are collieries/drifts and levels in the Bedlinog area and Ogilvie Colliery. An eye-witness report on the Darran Colliery explosion is also included

TRANSPORT

This section covers the arrival and expansion of the railways in the area and road transport.

RELIGION

This section deals with the early religious activities of the area and places of worship in Fochriw, Pentwyn, Penybank and Pantywaun.