Historic Wrexham “Treasures” on display at our Maker Space
Fascinating objects from Wrexham’s history have been shared by local people at a community based art project at Tŷ Pawb.
Developed by our current Maker Space resident, Rona Campbell, the Wrexham Treasures project invites local people to search for “hidden treasures”; objects and possessions with a personal story behind them, maybe something to do with family or home, that can be added to Wrexham’s history.
Rona has received a phenomenal response so far! All sorts of objects have been brought in so far, including photographs, shoes, vinyl records, and even an unopened bottle of locally brewed cordial!
Each object is accompanied with its owner’s story, explaining how they acquired the object and why it’s important to them.
Here are some highlights from the treasures shared with Rona so far….
‘Klondyke’
Shared by Geraint Jones:
“The bell pit was sunk in 2926 during the National Strike in the village of Rhosllannerchrugog.
“It was given the name ‘Klondyke’ as the quality of the coal was so good. The pit was on land (Darn John Trevor ) between the Square and the now demolished Eagles public house.”
Back row left to right: Samuel Jones Tai Nant, Tom Edwards (Tomos Te or Twma), Joseph Williams (Joe Jesse), John Jones Tai Nant.
Front row left to right: Edward Griffiths, Emlyn Edwards (Chwerth), Tom Jones (Twm Ffyle).
A bottle of blackcurrant cordial
Shared by Stephen Teggin:
“Years ago, border sold soft drinks all over north Wales with the Border logo and a red dragon on the bottle top. They were a local product, no longer produced.
“It’s one of the last drinks produced by Border Breweries in the early 1980’s, before they were taken over by Marstons. The soft drinks were produced where Border Retail Park is now.”
Two vinyl singles in a frame
Shared by Basi Platt:
“Vinyl records are an art form of their own. I was brought up with vinyl records. I used to have a beautiful, big walnut cabinet record player. This took pride of place in my bedroom. I could stack my 45rpm records and hear them drop on to the table effortlessly. These times were happy and I have very fond memories of them.
“Now vinyl has made a big comeback and is very sought after. I feel very lucky to have had them in my life, as they are a treasure to myself and many people. I am sure the Wrexham Treasures project has stirred many memories for me, therefore vinyl records are very apt.
“I attended the North Wales School of Art and Design, as it was known in the 70’s, now Wrexham University, so Wrexham is very close to my heart.”
Rhian Speed – Champion of the World
This is a Wrexham Treasure, worn by Wrecsam-born Welsh international darts player, Rhian Speed. She went on to win the World Darts Federation World Master in 1990.
Sadly we lost Rhian this year, making this treasure all the more precious to us and her family.
Treasure shared in by Rhian’s sisters.
Plas Kynaston Iron Foundry
We’re hugely grateful to the Plas Kynaston Canal Group for sharing an impressive selection of images featuring bridges and structures constructed using iron cast at Plas Kynaston Iron Foundry in Cefn Mawr, near Wrexham.
The Plas Kynaston Iron Foundry was built by William Hazeldine at the beginning of the 19th century to be able to produce the Iron Work for the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, as commissioned by Thomas Telford.
Other well known structures featured in the images include the Menai Suspension Bridge, the Waterloo Bridge (Betws y Coed), and the Craigellachie Bridge (on the River Spey in Scotland).
Visit the Plas Kynaston Canal Group website for the fascinating full story of the foundry – it’s well worth a read!
How you can get involved
The Maker Space is now closed for Christmas. It will reopen in January. The space is usually open on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays.
Everyone is more than welcome to come and meet Rona and view the treasures on display.