The Blaenafon Heritage and
Alexander Cordell Museum
BY SWANSEA VALLEY HOLIDAY COTTAGES

Alexander Cordell was one of Wales' most prolific writers who took his inspiration from the people and places of South Wales, and in particular the town of Blaenafon.

Cordell recognised earlier than many that the Blaenavon’s industrial legacy could be seen in the landscape. One of the world’s largest ever ironworks operated in what now seems just another small valley town. Yet Blaenavon used to be a town of international importance in the industrial revolution. Welsh coal was transported all over the world and Welsh iron was used for railways everywhere. And it was not only the produce of the earth which left Wales. Cordell's later books show how Welsh men took their skills and knowledge of iron working and mining out of Wales all over the world.

Blaenavon is now a UNESCO World Heritage site, and after Cordell’s death Torfaen County Borough Council saved from his writing room, his desk, typewriter and fragments of manuscripts. These items are now displayed at the Blaenafon Heritage & Cordell Museum in the Old Town Hall. Some of Cordell's personal possessions are also on display, with information panels about the author's life and writing. There is a collection of Cordell's reference books and the front covers from all his books including foreign language versions of Rape of the Fair Country.

The Blaenafon Heritage & Cordell Museum is run by volunteers from the Community Heritage Group. Newport Library also has some of his manuscripts. Appointments must be made before viewing (01633 842962)

Blaenavon is just a short scenic drive from your holiday cottage in the Swansea Valley. Visit the town for a glimpse of Wales’ rich industrial heritage, and buy a Cordell book for a real insight into how people used to live.

Read more about Alexander Cordell, the novelist.