Image - NLW Geoff Charles Collection
It’s that time of year again when the Library relocates for a few days for our annual pilgrimage to the Royal Welsh Agricultural Show in Builth Wells. It seems like only yesterday that we were here – must be a sign that were either enjoying life or getting a bit older – I’ll leave that decision up to you. We recently celebrated a special birthday, a hundred years since the Library’s foundation stone was laid on 15 July 1911 – I’m sure you’ll agree she looks very young and energetic for her age!
As this year’s show progresses, with only a day left, it has again proven as one of the Library’s highlights. 2010 saw Ceredigion as the host county, and this year the honour has been passed to Caernarfonshire, who has proven herself to be an admirable host.
Hywel Dda
The Library’s exhibition on our stand this year, ‘Life on the Land’ has drawn numerous comments and interest from the visiting public. The photographic exhibition features captured images from various farming communities in Wales, and is a testament to a bygone era. The exhibition highlights the extensive, rich, and varied photographic collection held at the Library, which encompasses all aspects of Welsh life and culture. Many of these collections have been digitised, and can be viewed on our website.
Among this year’s highlights, was the visit by Heledd Cynwal, S4C’s presenter of the popular TV Family History series ’Perthyn The series features the Library, and follows individuals who use the Library’s genealogical resources to trace their family history. One lucky viewer managed to trace her lineage to Hywel Dda, (c.880 – 950) who was the King of Deheubarth (south west Wales). I wonder how many of you will be successful in taking advantage of our genealogical resources? The Library is considered as the premier resource for all Welsh genealogical research and is a mecca for researchers from four corners of the World.
This years show has proven to be successful and memorable, and we hope that the hundred’s of visitors who called into our stand enjoyed the experience.
As we prepare to leave the showground for another year, our sights are drawn to Wrexham, who will be hosting this year’s National Eisteddfod – hope to see you there!!