An Email re misc matters.

WELSH BATTLEFIELD CAMPAIGN CONTINUES - JUST ABOUT?

Annwyl Pawb.

Had hoped to send out the attached NEWSLETTER sooner but Computer "CRASHED". Hope you find the NL interesting, if you wish to contribute to next issue that will be great (no deadlines as i produce as and when possible) Sorry about lack of 'Cymraeg'. I am typing this and all else with "one finger" as it is & with no "GRANTS".

Any way before I go into some STOP PRESS NEWS see short Email below in answer to my request for info on site of Battle of Pwll Melyn. I had thought that USK WALKS with up to 12 USK WALKS on their web site would mention the battle site, but no! so I wrote and asked if they had any info? Their answer is below.

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Email:

>Dear Sir>>Your site is very interesting and informative but I find nothing that would>guide me to whereabouts of site of the Battle of Pwll Melyn and massacre>of Pontfald 5th May 1405. Have you any information?>>I would be very pleased to receive such.>>Thank you.>>G.Gruffydd.

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Email reply from USK WALKS:

"Sorry, I haven't heard of it but there again I'm not Welsh!"

(My comment: The tone is a bit terse & disinterested to say the least but main point is the absolute uncaring disinterest. Now if i lived in Hastings I am sure I would have heard about and visited the Hastings Battle site very quick. See the problems we have in Cymru but it's not just English people, most Cymry do not care!) "Surely you could find references to it on the Web?"

(My Comment: No! there is nothing on the web at all. However, the good news is that local Bryn Buga Community is having a plaque & markers put up this year in time for USK CASTLE GLYNDWR PAGEANT over first weekend of July - See their web site & do make every effort to attend this event)

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John.
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(My Comment: you may yourself wish to contact John at Email address below suggesting that it really would be an excellent idea if they did a BATTLE OF PWLL MELYN, PONTFALD & MONKSWOOD WALK ON THEIR WEB SITE BY FIRST WEEKEND OF JULY?)

>-- Original Message -->From: "gethin gruffydd" <gethingruffydd@ntlworld.com>>To: <walks@jtallet.co.uk>>Subject: Pwll Melyn Battle Site>Date: Tue, 3 May 2005 17:21:06 +0100

Another Matters.

Plaques & Memorials: Other than at Pwll Melyn also on line for Bryn Glas & possibly at Woodbury Hill. Plus on Line are a Rhys Gethin Memorial and plaque at Aberdaron to mark the Tripartite Treaty 28 Chwefror 1405. Sadly the plaque placed atop Twt Hill, Caernarfon 2 Tachwedd 2004 has been totally removed by "UNSEEN HANDS". Hopefully, Caernarfon town's people will work to see it replaced. An idea being circulated in area is that to co - incide with the coming of the Eisteddfod, a gigantic 'Baneri Ddraig Aur' is raised atop Twt Hill. It is hoped that such would be a record breaking "Biggest Flag in Cymru" enterprise. When will Ceredigion set up memorial to Rhys Ddu? However, Aberystwyth's 'PLAS GLYNDWR' is now a fact, see sign above Siop y Pethe.

Cilmeri - The "Sacred Acre" threatened by housing encroachment but does any one care? NO! of course not this is "Celebrity Cymru PLC" and a "PATH OF FAME" out side the WMC is far more important? Sorry about the "Cynicism". But i am getting a bit fed up with all this "Cool Cymru" regeneration down in "TIGER BAY".

The WTB: You will see in the NL my letter to the WTB, YES! they have now ignored me thrice. Why? well there can only be "ONE ANSWER" and they just do not want to put it down on paper. However, WTB is just one amongst many that ignores me and my efforts on behalf of WELSH BATTLEFIELDS. A list that includes the "WELSH MEDIA" and Assembly A.M's who after initially showing interest now seem to have "BURIED MY CALL FOR ACTION". I am most annoyed with Plaid Cymru who i thought would really rise to this challenge to protect an important area of our NATIONAL HERITAGE but no? No sign of any interest at all.

FUTURE OF CAMPAIGN.

Do not know where I can now take it by myself or indeed how much more time I can spend on this campaign. I do not seem to be getting very far really. Over the coming months i shall try to get Wales based ARCHAEOLOGICAL ASSOCIATIONS & POSSIBLY WELSH MEDIEVAL LIVING HISTORY SOCIETIES TO ADOPT THE CAMPAIGN. Other than that i am prepared to:

If given help organise a conference as described (or similar) in the newsletter, to establish a Welsh Battlefield Trust. or 2. Organise a simple informal meeting of interested people & groups to simply discuss matters. Either would be at the WYE SIDE ARTS CENTRE ON 10 RHAGFYR 2005. If interested do let me know?

Well that's it folks, until next time.

Hwyl.

I'r Gad.

Yn Ffyddlon.

G.Gruffydd.

The American Civil War Again?

American Civil War Battle fields.

Excuse me, if I once more refer to the American Civil War; I do so partly out of my own interest but also as good reference to Battlefield Heritage Campaigning. I have made reference in past I'r Gad bulletins to the good work in America concerning protection of Battlefields. However, that is not to say such are actually more threatened by urban sprawl & highway building than such in the British Isles. Following is one case in particular that of the Loudoun battlefields of Aldie, Middleburg and upperville; important Cavalry engagements prior to the battle of Gettys burg. (See web sites for history). I would here simply like to draw attention of how a group of local people set about the preservation, Protection & promotion of these battlefields threatened as theory are by Higway development a Committee was set up with the, I quote: "The purpose of the Citizens Committee for Historic Cavalry Battles of Aldie, Middleburg and Upperville is to emphasize the tourism potential of those Civil War cavalry battles and to create a "self-driving" tour with roadway turnouts, detailed historic markers and conservation easements to preserve the battle sites. The committee consists of Loudoun County citizens and others with expertise in history, historic preservation, tourism, conservation, transportation or natural resources, as well as representatives of civic or homeowner groups or other interested organizations. Thirty-three members were appointed to the committee in May 2000".Now that is not too difficult is it ? So hopefully a few local concerned citizens here in Wales will take example from this and set up similar committees regards Welsh Battlefields". (I dream on ?). You will find stacks of stuff here about the battles of Aldie, Middleburg & Upperville on the web plus on Mosby "Grey Ghost" famous Confederate Calvary Officer. Look out for LLANGOLLEN FARM ? Further note important step regards the P.P & P of these battlefields was their mapping: See report by Deborah Fitts in the LOUDOUN TIMES MIRROR 3 - 10 - 2004 Come to light in mapping project By Deborah Fitts 09/28/2004. I Quote: Nowadays U.S. 50 in western Loudoun is busy with scurrying commuters. But that action doesn’t begin to touch the drama of a handful of days in June 1863, when 19,000 soldiers fought bitterly along a 20-mile stretch of the road with the fate of the nation at stake. On Saturday, the most accurate and detailed maps ever made of those battles – Aldie, Middleburg and Upperville, June 17-21, 1863 – will be unveiled in a by-invitation-only gathering of preservation groups at Llangollen Farm in Upperville. (More on Llangollen Farm in next issue of I'r Gad).

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“This is the first time these battles have been properly mapped, using the latest technology along with historical research and documentation".

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“This is some of the best work I’ve done,” said Lowe, who will speak at Saturday’s event. “It’s a very high-quality product”.

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“You can’t protect what you don’t know,” explained Ziluca. “They’ll have accurate information available to them as to where these battles took place. So when there’s an application [for development] that has an impact on a battlefield, the county can take a good look at it”.

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“Now they’re recognized as extremely important battles, probably the second-largest cavalry actions of the Civil War” .

That's it folks!

So until next time, Battle on?

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G.G.

Welsh Assembly Considers Welsh Battlefields?

Welsh Battlefields Under Consideration by Assembly ? News To Me, but lt's hope it is true & if so we will see Action not Wind. Reviews of Heritage Protection in England & Wales NEW: CBA Draft Response to Review Now Available Online


Background The Department of Culture, Media and Sport in July 2003 launched a consultation on proposals for major reforms to the system by which England's heritage - including historic buildings, ancient monuments and historic areas - are protected. A parallel consultation has been commenced by the National Assembly for Wales (NAW). Comments are being sought in response to their proposals in England by DCMS by 31st October 2003, and in Wales by the NAW by 21st November 2003. A companion consultation paper covering regimes for protection of marine and maritime archaeology is due to follow later this summer and we will provide details here once they are available.Scope of Review The reviews are centred on examining the legislation through which the most important archaeological and historic assets are protected - which is primarily by designation as Listed Buildings and Scheduled Ancient Monuments, or Conservation Areas, Historic Battlefields, Historic Parks and Gardens, Protected Wrecks etc. Such statutory designation usually affords additional controls which helps to protect historic and archaeological assets.O.K! So start writing letters to your A.M. asking him/her for further info/results re above as they concern Welsh Battle field sites. Inform me of the feedback ?

G.

The Battle of Hirwaun Common?

Battlefields Sites Lost Forever ?

The key objectives of our Battlefield Campaign is of course their preservation & protection, having said that here in Cymru we first have much work to locate many Battle Sites & as far as possible certify them as authentic. This is important for a number of reasons; in the first place it is not always the case that local tradition as to site of a Battle field is correct, despite possible local names at location which may signify a battle having been fought. (see examples in this Emailing Bulletin). This is not just a matter of seeking "Historic Authenticity" but also because if the end objective is to see such Battle sites registered we need to understand what is at stake. Our campaign to see that our Battlefields sites are registered goes hand in hand with campaign for the legal powers to ensure they are then preserved & protected, this in mind there is a need to be "spot on" as it could effect peoples properties & livelihoods. As in the case perhaps of the Battle of Hirwaun 1093:

1093 ...Rhys ap Tewdwr, king of Deheubarth, was slain by the French who were inhabiting Brycheiniog. And then fell the kingdom of theBritons. .... And then, two months after that, .... the French came to Dyfed and Ceredigion, which they have held to this day, and they fortified them with castles ; and they seized all the land of theBritons ....'Brut y Tywysogion 1093 (Hergest version.)

Hirwaun (Mid Glamorgan) Is derived from Hirwaun Wrgan, which means Gwrgan`s long meadow. It was here at the end of the eleventh century, that a battle was fought between Iestyn ap Gwrgan, with his Norman allies, against the forces of Rhys ap Tewdwr, Prince of Dynevor. Rhys fled from the battle and was captured and beheaded at Penrhys in the Rhondda Valley, where a monastery was later built over his burial site. There are several cairns in the Hirwaun area that are reputed to be monuments to this great battle and some name refer to this event, for example, Maes y Gwaed (The Field of Blood), Carn y Frwydr (Battle Cairn) and Gadlys (The Hall of Battle Hirwaun)

Regards the above, I must admit I have not given great in depth research & study too; i am taking these examples above form Web sites at face value. Some where to back of my mind is the thought that i may have read somewhere Rhys was killed outside Brecon? I am aware that the story regards his connection to Penrhys in Y Rhondda is untrue so i cannot claim that the aforementioned Battle is authentic. However, it serves purpose here to use as an example to raise issue of Battle field site desecration & despoilment by human hand if the industrial uses of Hirwaun Common has ravaged the Battlefield beyond any recognition. There are of course many issues here to consider not least the one of desecration, then of despoilment of an important Battle site but also what about the issue of the need to exploit the land for sake of a peoples livelihood & community survival, in this instance Hirwaun & this battle site is an excellent example to focus debate around. Given there is reason to believe that the Battle site has been despoiled there ? Perhaps local enthusiasts or interests could inform me? These are issues that thankfully the RCAHMW are now taking aboard in their survey of Welsh Battlefields as reported in a two page centre spread in the Daily Post, which our Society helped with & contributed to.

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Another Time and Another Struggle.

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Raising The Red Flag on Hirwaun Common 31 May 1831 Another Battle was to begin on Hirwaun Common that which has come down to us, known as the Merthyr Rising 1831 an insurrection by Welsh Workers seeking "Natural Justice".
2006 marks the 175th Anniversary. I know that a number of commemorative events & activities are taking place in Hirwaun, Merthyr & across the heads of the valley's down into the Southern Valleys of 'Cordell Country'.Further information on request only.

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Gethin Gruffydd.

The Battle Of Crug Mawr 1136.

Hydref witnesses two important anniversaries in English/British history that on October 21st being the 200th anniversary of the Sea Battle of Trafalgar 21 October, then on 14 October the Battle of Hastings 1066. Every one born in the British Isles, including most Welsh People over 14 will have heard of both these battles. Majority of people will of course not possess full knowledge regards these very important events in "British History" but they will never have been denied knowledge of such, as much as 'Y Cymry' are often denied knowledge of their history. Thus most peoples of Britain will if asked about Hastings or Trafalgar will have a bit of a clue & come up with some sort of reply. However ask the majority of Cymry about the Battle of Crug Mawr 1136 & few will have any clue at all, thus our campaign on behalf of Welsh Battlefields is as much to with providing information & education as it is to "PRESERVE & PROTECT".
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The Battle of Crug Mawr 1136.

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10th Hydref 1136. The Cymry won the Battle of Crug Mawr, Abertiefi thus winning the short war of 1136. The war had began on 1 Ionawr of that year when Hywel ap Maredudd of Brycheiniog stormed across the 'Brecon Beacons' to give the Normans of Gower a good thrashing at Llwchwr, the annals speak of the Wolves & Ravens having a fantastic new year feast upon the rotting Norman corpses. Meanwhile 'Y Cymry' went on to ravage Gwyr & it's Flemish settlements. On the down side it was during this war that Princess Gwenllian was defeated in battle, captured she was immediately executed by a 'Cymro', yes! a Cymro and to make matters worse he volunteered to do the job for his Norman mates. The Battle of Crug Mawr 1136 is a very important battle in our history for the outcome of a Cymric Victory was to me momentous in many ways, not least of course in that it ensured the survival for another 146 years the existence of a pura wallia; a "Cymru Rydd" of native principalities rather than the "Occupied Wales" of Marcher Walia. The consequences of which were profound regards allowing time for native laws & culture to flourish rather than be over run by possible Norman - Flemish Conquest & Colonisation, if this had been the case then an "Anglicised" pura Wallia may have been a greater & speedier reality. The Battle of Crug Mawr 1136 is certainly up for a "What If" interpretation of our history & along with the Battle of Mynydd Carn 1081 & Battle of Hirwaun 1093 are major turning points in our history. What's that? did i hear you say MEMORIALS, of course not these are "Cymric Battlefields" best forgotten & may be despoiled (See below). However,I suggest if you want an October outing why not take a trip to Aberteifi in search of the Battle site of Crug Mawr, information on which you will find in the Town Museum down by the Harbour. Further, do use the web to seek out information as examples following:

In 1110 Gilbert Fitz-Richard, Earl of Clare was granted all the lands of Ceredigion by Henry I if he could conquer them from the Welsh. Gilbert de Clare rebuilt the castle, (probably a wooden motte and bailey construction), and established the town nearby. He is also credited with building the first wooden bridge. Gilbert de Clare appointed a Norman called Stephen to be Governor of Cardigan, and he was succeeded by his son Robert Fitz-Stephen. In 1136 Robert de Clare, son of Gilbert, was granted control of his father's lands and it was in this year that a Welsh Army led by Gruffydd ap Rhys ap Tewdwr, inflicted a crushing defeat on the Normans at the Battle of Crug Mawr (about 1 mile north of Cardigan at Penparc). During the battle many were killed and the old bridge at Cardigan collapsed under the weight of the fleeing Normans. Hundreds were drowned until their bodies formed a 'bridge' for the others to cross. The castle, however, did not fall and remained in the hands of the Normans until 1165 when Lord Rhys ap Gruffydd conquered Cardigan for the Welsh. He let all the Normans go free except Governor Robert Fitz-Stephen, whom he imprisoned. From CardiganTown Web Site History Trail which also informs us that in 1136 The Welsh led by Gruffydd ap Rhys ap Tewdwr defeated the Normans at the battle of Crug Mawr here at Penparc, The Normans fled back to Pembrokeshire across the old wooden bridge at Cardigan in such numbers that they caused it to collapse. Cross the footbridge adjacent to Cardigan Bridge. The original wooden bridge was further upstream, close to the Church at Gloster Row. It is said to have once famously collapsed under the weight of soldiers fleeing from the battle of Crug Mawr (1136) when the victorious Welsh drove the Normans back across the river. The present bridge was partly re-built in 1726 and originally had seven arches, but it is likely that a bridge has occupied this site since the 13th century. The name Canllefaes (pronounced KAN-KLEV-ICE) is derived from Cant Llevas or Cant Llevarvas which, we are told, is translated as "The hundred cries on the field" - a battle or war cry. (Search Web for Canllefaes Cottage).

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Another October Battle

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A Forgotten Border War?
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In the year 1055, the thirteenth year of the reign of Edward the Confessor, Griffith ap Llewellyn, Prince of North Wales, having been excited and assisted by Algar, Earl of Chester, assembled his forces, attacked the English, and made an inroad into Herefordshire. When within two miles of Hereford he was opposed by Ralph, Earl of Hereford, who had raised what troops he could to stop his progress. The consequence was that a battle was fought, the issue of which was for some time dubious, but at length the Welsh were successful; a tumultuous pursuit took place, and the two armies entering the city together, the whole became a scene of pillage and slaughter. This battle took place on the 24th day of October, and the inhabitants of the district of Kington assisted the Welsh, who were at that time their countrymen, on this memorable occasion. FROM KNIGHTON TOWN WEB SITE.

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Gethin Gruffydd.

I'r GAD: Welsh Battlefield Campaign Begins.

I’r Gad Welsh Battlefield Campaign Begins.

2003.

Please see the enclosed report on the status quo regards the preservation, protection and promotion of ‘Welsh Battle Fields’ plus other related material that may be of interest.

Having spent some time researching the ‘status quo’ situation regards Welsh Battlefields, I can now state that I am in a position to bring this project to a conclusion. First and foremost however, I must assert that my three main objectives remain and are as follows:

1. An urgent need to establish a ‘Welsh Battle Field Trust’; but I am of the opinion now that this should be the responsibility of one or a number of the following, possibly, as a joint effort:

· CADW.
· RCAHMW.
· The Four Welsh Archaeological Trusts.
· UCW Colleges Medieval History Departments.
· Council of Welsh Museums.
· Representatives of Military Museums in Wales.

Whatever body/ies assumes responsibility could then, in time, work with representatives of other bodies as, for example, the ‘Welsh Tourist Board’ and it’s ‘regional Tourism Partnerships’ and other ‘bodies’ that may have an interest in having a stake in such a development. Not least of these invited to participate would be societies and groups that have interest in Welsh Military History which would include Medieval Re – Enactment Societies and groups that are, at present, engaged in commemorative and memorialising work and who, up to now, have ''carried the torch'' in respect to encouraging greater public interest in Welsh Battlefields & Military history.

Hopefully, in time, a means would be found for allowing members of the general public to be ''associate members''’ of such a ‘Welsh Battlefield Trust’.

I propose that the first step towards the establishment of a ‘WBT’ would be the holding of a ‘Welsh Battlefield Conference’ to discuss, thoroughly, matters regards the establishment of such a ‘Trust’. I also consider that it would be in the best interest of a successful endeavour if one - or all of the aforementioned took responsibility for such business. However, ‘’Time and tide waits for no man’’ and as there is some urgency in regards to this business, I shall continue to pursue the above and the following by seeking, at minimum, the establishment of a ‘Welsh Battlefield Research Group’ that will have a remit to do site visits (as outlined in the main document) and keep this issue active until the above proposal is taken up and advanced.

2. The Campaign for a ‘Welsh Battlefield Register’ will continue but will do so now in support of the work being carried out by the RCAHMW, satisfied by assurances by they and the O.S. that the matter of Welsh Battlefields are not being ignored but that the inclusion of marking more ‘Welsh Battlefields’ will be carefully considered and carried out as and when appropriate and possible to do so. Further, I am most appreciative of the fact that CADW has confirmed that it, as a body, is most actively willing to consider, at some time in the future, being responsible for a ‘Welsh Battlefield Register’. They have also informed me that they have taken steps already to put in motion appraisal of such a project. Although, at the moment, the ‘’ball is in the court’’ of the RCAHMW’. However, CADW has suggested that in lieu of a ‘WBR’ it may be possible to, at least, publish a ‘List of Welsh Battlefields’ to provide ‘Local Planning Authorities’ with such which could also be made available to the general public; such would at least allow then for a more efficient ‘’Battlesite Watch’’ to be carried out.

· This is wonderful news - and I am looking forward to the day when CADW may, at last, publish a ‘Welsh Battlefield Register’ and should it be produced as well as their ‘Historic Landscapes’ Brochure and associated local brochures then, indeed, we will have something very worthwhile. Such would be of immense value to not only the preservation, protection and promotion of Welsh Battlefields but also as a means of greatly encouraging Welsh people to have more interest in a history that is on their own door step. Also, of course, such would greatly promote Wales and be of use to tourism and thus the WTB should be encouraged to support all efforts to fulfil such an objective.

3. Campaign for the National Assembly of Wales to enact Legislation for the Preservation, Protection and Promotion of Welsh Battlefields. In this instance, ‘promotion’ in particular means ensuring that ‘Welsh Military History’ as well as knowledge of Welsh Battlefields are on the Educational Agenda of Wales. Regards this Campaign, it will, of course, be calling on NAW AM’s to support and advance the said proposal to its successful conclusion. To such ends, this campaign will attempt, by various means, to mobilise various interest groups and the general public to support fully. Leaders of all Assembly Political Parties have been requested to support campaign for a ‘WBR’.

Concern:
Both the RCHAMW and CADW however, pose the problems of search and survey of ‘Welsh Battle Sites’ having to being properly carried out and correctly recorded based on precise historical and other evidence; this is, in part, to also satisfy the requirements of the O.S. I well understand and essentially accept the case made by these agencies in respect of such matters. but feel its important to point out that, in Scotland, ‘Historic Scotland’ a body already responsible for actively working towards a ‘Scottish Battlefield Register’ along with other bodies, have come to the opinion that where exact sites cannot be located then a broad area of recognised battle location will be acceptable. I hope that the aforementioned ‘’Welsh Bodies’’ will consider the same practicalities. It is interesting to note, that a ‘Scottish Battlefield Register’ intends to include ‘important skirmishes’, in a Welsh context I would draw attention to such event as that of Coed Grwyne April 1136.

NB: This first decade of the second millennium witnesses a number of anniversaries connected with Owain Glyndŵr Battlefields, of which only the ‘Battle of Bryn Glas’ is marked on a map - and even though the ‘Battle of Hyddgen’ has long been memorialised by a ‘Cofiwn’ memorial’, it is not marked on a map. 2005 will mark the 600th Anniversaries of the ‘’Bloody Spring’’ Military offensive with the battles of ‘Grosmont’ and ‘Pwll Melyn’. These are battle sites of major importance; it would be very welcome - and pleasing, if the aforementioned bodies could give these significant battle sites some priority attention so they, themselves, could be seen to be marking these anniversaries.

Should you require further information on this issue please do contact myself at the above address and if you are aware of others that may have an interest, please do pass this letter and the attached report on.

Yn Ffyddlon.

G.Gruffydd.

NB: See recently published ‘Heritage Counts’ Published by ‘English Heritage’.

I'r Gad Programme 2005 - 2010.

I’r Gad – Welsh Battlefield Campaign Programme 2005 – 2010.

Hopefully with help of the media in Wales my campaign on behalf of Welsh Battlefield Sites will continue as follows:

2005/6 Short term: At moment I am continuing to distribute campaign material to:

· MP’s, AM’s, MEP’s.
· Local authorities.
· Governmental Agencies.
· N.G.O’s
· Archaeological groups.
· University Departments.
· Various Societies and interest groups.
· The Media.
· Other?

This however, is a time consuming & costly business and as I am still a fair way from being in position to establish a ‘Welsh Battlefields Trust’ similar to that which exists in England. I have nevertheless been promoting & prompting into existence autonomous local ‘Battlefield Friends Groups’ to research sites & study history of and back up locally work I am promoting nationally.

2006/7/8 Long term, I am developing slowly work in following areas:

* Develop a Welsh Battlefield web site.

* Organise a conference to arouse interest in this campaign.
* Prompt into existence a ‘Welsh Battlefield Trust’.
* Make sure a number of publications are made available to the public.

* Develop ideas regards a ‘Welsh Battlefield Interpretation Centre’
* Provide an information service to History Interest groups, inc re-enactors.

* Develope Battlefied trials and Tours.
* Other.

To facilitate the speedier advance of above, I hope by the end of this year to organise a meeting to establish a new society ‘I’r Gad’ Welsh Battlefield Sites Campaign which will have as it’s main campaigning aims the Preservation, Protection & Promotion of Welsh Battlefields Sites. Our chief objective of course will be to see established a ‘Welsh Battlefield Trust’ and thence work towards establishment of a ‘Welsh Battlefield Register’, there after ensure that legislation is implemented by the ‘National Assembly of Wales’ to secure future care of Welsh Battlefield Sites. Our Society ‘I’r Gad’ would also have as programme of work that aforementioned under long & short term, including much emphasis being placed on Welsh Battle Site Interpretation, Memorial & Marker work.

Further, to above I personally am working on a booklet on subject of ‘Battles that changed Welsh History’ and at the same time am pursuing with a number of T.V companies including S4C & BBC WALES also C 5 and the History Channel potential to produce a TV programme on this subject. Noting interest in the British Battles Series produced by BBC 2, an episode of which was on subject of the ‘Battle of Bryn Glas’. This series & thus this episode has been shown on Public Service TV in the USA this year.

Gethin.

I'r GAD Bulletin Hydref 2005.

I’r Gad Ymgyrch Brwydrau Cymru Campaign

Cylchllythyr/Newsletter Hydref 2005.

Introduction. It will perhaps be surprising to most people if they were told that the majority of Welsh Battle sites are not only without a memorial but very few are even marked on maps. It is perhaps therefore surprising to find that the site of the ‘Battle of Bryn Glas’ 22 June 1402 is one of the very few Welsh Battle fields to find marked on maps but is, however, without a memorial.* Unfortunately, the majority of Glyndŵr battle sites also remain unmarked on maps and are without memorials set up to record where they took place.

* Battlefields Memorials are set up for Battles of Llwchwr 1136, Moel y Don 1282 and Hyddgen. I understand a wooden plaque was placed by Cofiwn at Bryn Glas sometime during the 1970’s, this soon disappeared. However, I have heard on the grapevine that plans are in pipeline for another plaque to be placed at battle site of Bryn Glas soon.

The ‘Battle of Bryn Glas’ is the better known of Glyndŵr's victories. Hyddgen 1401 is recorded as his first real battle victory and has been marked by a Memorial set up by Mudiad Cofiwn but sadly, this memorial has since been vandalised and the inscripted slate plaque has been replaced by a smaller plaque set up by a former member of Mudiad Cofiwn. It had been hoped that the 600th anniversary would have seen moves to restore the Hyddgen memorial to its proper glory and, perhaps, even bigger; but this was not to be so, it is we believe now, as with all our memorial project proposals, a matter for local concern and pride to get something done.

Prince Owain and his gallant soldiers fought many battles such as the aforementioned; amongst the greatest were the Battle of Bryn Owain/Stalling Down 1403 Craig y Dorth 1404 and the Battle of Pwll Melyn fought in Gwent during the ‘bloody spring’ of 1405 - all of which have 600th anniversaries on the horizon and we hope moves will be made in their localities to have memorials set up to record fittingly, be they victories or defeats. Not least, campaigns should begin to see that these battle fields are not only recorded on maps but that local Authorities, in particular, give them due attention in literature they produce. Battle of Llwchwr 1136 memorial is ignored by Swansea local Authority and tourism in their brochures etc.

Further, do keep in mind that other that Battles, there were ‘guerrilla campaigns’ and ‘major offensives’ that deserve to be similarly recorded and, not least, the campaigns against the English held castles all over the land. In this connection it should be especially noted that it was in 1403 that Prince Owain began a military offensive ‘Haf Glyndŵr’ specifically against these English garrison positions and brought to an end, for a short while, English castle rule of Wales. Do note we also need to initiate a major campaign aimed at prompting CADW to also carry out long overdue commemorative and memorialising work. We consider, at the very least, that Cadw should set up Interpretation Display boards * at all castles Glyndŵr put to siege - especially in 1403-1404 periods of campaigns.

Brwydrau Glyndŵr 1405 - 2005: The Battles of Grosmont 11 March 1404 and Battle of Pwll Melyn 5 May 1405 (yes! Election day?) “The Bloody Spring Offensive”, most historians determine this as the beginning of the end of Owain Glyndŵr’s good fortunes. I detect possible ill discipline of the Welsh Army whose ranks had been greatly swollen by the “peasantry” aka “Barefoot Welsh Doggis” who have pillage on their mind rather than any military strategy. Interestingly it is largely the same sort of military ill discipline which messes up Confederate strategy meant to deliver a knock out blow against the Union but instead ended up with the South’s Gettysburg disaster. Confederate strategy required avoiding the town of Gettysburg but a great number of shoeless Confederate soldiers (“Bare foot Doggis”) knew that Gettysburg was a German settlement of shoemakers and could not resist a foray into the town. However, a Union battery at Gettysburg dug in and resisted and thus the rest is history (see Film ‘Gettysburg’ also of interest the alternate history novel ‘Bring out the Jubilee’). It is these “minor moments” of military history that often determine the course of history, as example the failed arrival of bread supplies determined the Moors abandon the siege of Malta.

I am now meandering off course, not an unusual thing for me to do. Glyndŵr battles being pretty much to fore this year leads me to put forward an area of study you may wish to follow up on during the summer:

'Owain Glyndwr - from victory to defeat' *

1 Battle of Vyrnwy 1400: Background connection, the opening Northeast campaign September 1400. (I am requesting Michael Roberts of Samhain to submit paper)

2 Battle of Hyddgen 1401: Prince Owain's first victory, opening up the Southwest. ''Rallied the Welsh''. See Writer Ian Fleming (no not of Bond fame)

3 Battle of Bryn Glas 1402: Great Welsh battle victory, as important as 'Bannockburn' is to the Scots. See Logeston Publishers

4. Battle of Bryn Owain/Stalling Down 1403: Following on the ''Haf Glyndŵr'' Ystrad Tywi Campaign. See Writer Herbert Williams.

5 Battle of Craig y Dorth 1404: In connection with the major ''12 miles deep'' Welsh Border offensive. See Chris Barber.

6 Battles of Grosmont and Pwyll Melyn 1405: the ''Bloody Spring'' in Gwent. ''Final defeat in sight''? See writer Cris Barber.

For overall view of the war see Glyndwr’s War by G.J. Brough. Glyndwr publications.

NB: I am also proposing to a number of “Bodies” and Gwent based individuals that the above may make an ideal programme for a ‘Glyndŵr Military History Conference’ to be held in association with Bryn Buga Battle of Pwll Melyn commemoration this year. I will let you know if any one takes up this initiative and organise such. It would be a good idea to have some thing published on the above so I will give it some thought, if you have any suggestions let me know OK!

Plus: Perhaps we should focus WBfC effort this year on having these Battle sites “registered”; preserved, protected and promoted. Please do what you can.

Welsh Battle Fields Conference.

You will be interested to know that it was the threat of a motorway, housing developments, and golf courses threatening English battle fields (Tewkesbury, Newbury and Neasby in particular) which moved a number of people in England to establish what became the successful annual English Battle Fields Conference. This conference, with support of a marvellous pro–active campaign by ‘The Times’ newspaper and a series of excellent articles, moved ‘English Heritage’ (CADW’s equivalent in England) to establish an English Battle field register. This now goes a long way towards defence of English battle fields against any threat. It would, of course, be our objective also to see a similar Welsh Battle Fields Register set up in Wales.’ Talks are under way to hold a Welsh Battle Fields Conference. Similarly I would like to see a Welsh Battlefield Conference held towards the same end purpose. Below is a suggested programme/agenda for such conference but note, impossible for I to organise myself, I would need help and possible sponsorship. Suggestions welcome.

Welsh Battlefields Conference and other Proposals:

Introduction proposal is that the said conference be held in Buellt/Builth over weekend of 10 – 11 December 2005 with the following proposed programme/agenda:

To establish a ‘Welsh Battlefield Trust’; similar to those that exist in England and Scotland with similar policies and programmes of work and that thereafter, this ‘Welsh Battlefield Conference’ be annually held at Buellt’ on weekends prior to 11 December (to facilitate the annual Cilmeri and Abaty Cwm Hir commemorations that are annually held on the weekend following 11 December) but, that when 11th December falls on a weekend, the W.Bf.T. will hold it’s annual ‘Welsh Battlefields Conference' on that weekend. Further, we propose that the conference should always include a W.Bf.T AGM held on Sunday mornings of the Conference. Proposed Conference Agenda:

1. Sat 10th Dec: During morning, general review on Welsh Battlefields, and during afternoon, talks on specific Welsh Battlefields, and their importance in Welsh History. During the evening I suggest a social function with a guest speaker and I propose Anthony Edwards, author of publications on the 'Battle of Irfon Bridge' as a speaker to be considered.

* Sat Night Social Function? (Inc above speaker Anthony Edwards)

2. Sun 11th Dec: During morning; discussion on W.Bf.T. Constitution, policy and programme of immediate priorities etc (A.O.B. Inc) with election of officers as may be required. The Afternoon will have talks given by guest speakers: representing English & Scottish Battlefields Trusts, English Heritage, National Army Museum (London) RCAHMW ‘CADW’ and others? Evening: I propose that someone speaks on present day issues regards commemorating and celebrating the American Civil War.

NB: If necessary, this could be a three day conference, or in the least, could least open on the Friday night with a 'Social Welcome' and, possibly then, the aforementioned speaker on American Civil War.

Adopt a Welsh Battlefield.

Action Required: Some years ago, even Waterloo had been threatened by motorway construction and, this year, Azincourt is threatened by Windmills. Two years ago a Breton battlefield was threatened by a rubbish dump expansion and even the Bannock Burn battlefield has not been immune to all sorts of development threats. In all the aforementioned cases there were national “Call to Arms” initiating campaigns to preserve, protect and promote these important Military Heritage Sites. So, what about Welsh battlefields? Does anyone care! It would seem not, certainly not the so called “Welsh Media” currently heavily involved in reviving “Kool Kymru” as now “Celebrity Cymru”. Certainly not the “Welsh Politicians” perhaps worried that ‘Welsh Battlefield Site Registration’ may make things difficult for “Welsh Farmers”, who, due to government policies, are “strapped for cash” and need to sell off bits of land for “bungalow building” and “Windmill Farms”. Of course greed and short sightedness of politicians and profiteers will see the Welsh Military Heritage disappear without trace. It is much to the “hypocritical shame of the Welsh that they boast of how the medieval Welsh fought so hard for their freedom (as recently used by WoS to exhort the Welsh Rugby team to victory) but then collectively as a nation we either do not know of, do not care about or forget and ignore the very “bloodied acres” upon which our ancestors fought for our homelands freedom and liberties. Yes! Hypocrites, what does that line in our national anthem say “Dros Rhyddid Gollasant Eu Gwaed“. I doubt if there is any nation or peoples on this earth that ignore or forgets their own Military history as much as the Welsh do. Don’t believe me? Well, go check out how Native Americans, Maoris and Zulus honour their native warriors and battle sites. Indeed just go see how even the English do it. A Matter the so called Welsh Media continues to ignore?????????

Perhaps, until something radical is done to save ‘Welsh battlefields', it may be a good idea if patriots in communities throughout the land at the very least established local ‘Battlefield Site Survey Groups’ and ‘adopted their local Battlefield' to serve notice on the powers that be, that action at long last is being taken. Please inform me if you do this, so I can at least assist with liaison and coordination in such developments.

Other work you may carry out:

What you can do to support this Battlefields Campaign.

* Let us know if you have a passive or active interest in this Campaign.

* Study and research local battlefields and register this Info with Campaign.

* Local campaign to raise awareness of need for Battlefield preservation.

* Letter Campaigns to local and national media, MPs, MEPs and AM.

*Campaigns aimed at the Military History Publishing concerns.

* Adopt a battlefield, and do inform one & all – Inc Media National & local.

Please keep me informed on developments re above.


Welsh Military History Writing and Publishing.

At least there are improvements in area of Welsh Military History Writing, see work of Paul Rempfrey (search web) also recently published book on Welsh Military Institutions, only problem the price; at £30 obviously it will not become mass popular reading. My concern about Welsh battlefields has been to the fore in my mind for quite some time, prompted by my finding out the disinterest that exists amongst the powers that be who should be concerned - and then also, by the attitude of military historians and publishers. On the subject of Welsh Battlefields, we were already aware of the fact that battlefields in Wales were particularly under threat, in the main, because the Welsh Monuments Board and CADW the bodies responsible for our ‘Heritage in the Landscape’ do not have Welsh Battle Sites down on their list of priorities. Add to this the fact that there is an institutionalised thinking amongst ‘British historians’ and ‘military interest publishing’ that proclaims that there were no Welsh Battle fields only “Killing Grounds”! and no doubt then they usually go on to paint a picture of the Welsh as only being capable of fighting a guerrilla form of warfare. So very few books on military history ever mention Welsh battles. Go and have a look… you will be shocked that even a major work such as the O.S book of British battles mentions no Welsh battle Fields at all. However, there does exist some books on Welsh Battles.

· Battles in Wales by Herbert Williams.

· The Battles of Wales by Dilys Gator.

· Famous Welsh Battles by Philip Warner.

· Glyndŵr's War by Gideon Brough.

· In Search of Owain Glyndŵr by Chris Barber.

· Glyndŵr’s First Victory by Ian Flemming.

Also must mention:

· For best account of the ‘Battle of Bryn Glas’ see book Owain Glyndŵr & the last war of welsh independence in the Welsh Borders, written by Geoffry Hodges & published by Logeston Press. I have suggested to the publishers they publish the chapter on battle of Bryn Glas as a pamphlet. It’s under consideration.

· Last but not least, suggest you buy ‘Reference Wales, compiled by John May, published by UWP, Cardiff. Excellent pen ultimate list of Welsh Battlefields.

Other publications:

· The Normans in South Wales 1070 – 1171. Lynn Nelson. University of Texas.

· Llywelyn ap Gruffydd. J.B.Smith. UWP. Cardiff.

· The Taming of the Dragon. W.B.Bartlett. Sutton publishing.

·

The Age of Conquest. R.R. Davies. Oxford U.P.

Afterthoughts:

·

Last year seen an item in ‘Western Mail’, about a group of Welsh Medieval re-enactors going off to ‘Azincourt’ to help save that Battlefield from ‘windmill developments. ‘’What about Welsh Battlefields?’’ and they are closer. Indeed I would hope that Welsh Military/Medieval Living History & re – enactment societies and Groups will follow the example of Samhain, who are the first of such to promise support for my campaign.

·

Last year BBC 2 produced a T.V. series on subject of”British Battlefields” and that at least one episode covered battles fought by Glyndŵr. This episode largely about ‘Battle of Bryn Glas’ proved to be excellent. In passing, thought I would ask the question; why doesn’t BBC Wales (or even ITV Wales producing, a long over due T.V. series on Welsh battlefields? Hello! BBC Wales programme makers; I can supply you with a ‘treatment’ for such – No problem!


Brwydr Llwchwr 1 Ionawr 1136

There is a fine memorial to this battle, raised by Cofiwn members, supporters and others. This memorial is placed on Garn Goch common near to road on way to Garn Goch Hospital via the A 484. Well worth a visit on a warm sunny summers day with a pic nic in mind.

Military history and battlefields may not be quite the ''Politically correct'' thing to be concerned with but we Welsh are at peril of severe ignorance, understanding and appreciation of the fact that for a 1000 years - roughly between King Arthur's victory at Mount Badon over the Saxons to Henry Tudors victory over Richard III at Battle of Bosworth in 1485. Military history and battles have shaped Welsh history - as the aforementioned clearly indicates - even if you only have a little knowledge of your nation's history' you will know that both these battles in particular were contributory to the Wales, as we know it today.

Most people and that includes the majority of Welsh people understand the significance of the Battle of Hastings, as Americans would The Battle of Gettysburg, whilst Native Americans full understand the significance of the Battle of the Little Big Horn and the consequences of the Battle of Wounded Knee. Our own first minister who recently went out of his way to visit Rourkes drift and Isandlwana battlefields probably knows more about these battles than he does about any Welsh Battlefield - indeed I wonder if he's visited any? It would be very interesting and illuminating to do a survey of this with our political representatives. “Name just one Welsh Battlefield?” would be enough.

So what of Welsh Battlefields? As Mynydd Carn 1081 and Irfon Bridge 1282 or Bryn Glas 1402 - how many Welsh people have even heard of them - let alone know of their significance and consequences? Lets take this Battle of Llwchwr 1136 fought on 1st January 1136 between the Welsh of Brycheiniog led by Hywel ap Maredudd and the Norman's of Gŵyr. At this time remember Norman power was expanding into Sicily and Greece and into Ireland and Scotland - the Norman's were on an ''unstoppable roll''. The ''Welsh war of resistance'' to further Norman Conquest started here on a new year’s day and despite a bitter set back at Battle of Maes Gwenllian but finally won at Battle of Crug Mawr near Ceredigion in October 1136. Stopped the ''Norman's in their tracks'', and ''pura Wallie'' was saved for another 140 years - time enough for the ''age of the princes of Dehuebarth and Gwynedd'' to consolidate and strengthen Welsh Laws, culture and customs - from which the Native language was to flourish. So If these Battles had not been fought and not been won - we might not be here today.

It is sad that most Welsh people know and understand little of all this, whilst the English know of their, not least due to being taught so in schools and TV progs etc. Further,The Times ''thundered'' and with an ''English Battlefield Trust'' convinced ''English Heritage'' of need for an ''English Battlefields register'' to designate and thus help to protect and preserve their battlefields, same exists in Scotland, Ireland and else where. Cadw has promised to consider a Welsh Battlefield Register and indeed a provisional listing to inform local Authorities of Battle sites in their localities. However, do not leave it at that, we must continue the campaign. If nothing else you can show active support by writing articles and letters on the subject for your local paper as well as to local councillors. AM’s, MP’s and MEP’s. PLEASE DO WHAT YOU CAN TIME IS NOT ON OUR SIDE OK!

Finally with the aforementioned in mind would you not agree that there is a need for a Welsh Battlefield Register? To give so much attention to Anglo – Norman castles and not to the military struggle that brought them into existence is rather perverse.
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Yn Ffyddlon.
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G.Gruffydd.
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Welsh Heritage Researcher.

NEWS LETTER ENDS.

NB: If you wish to contribute to this news letter please do so, please type ready to include as time is not on my side either unfortunately. I cannot give affirmative dates for newsletter issue but will as material available and possible.

WTB Ducks & Dives.

Wales Tourism Board “Ducks & Dives”.

Copy of letter to WTB: Original letter sent in February but no reply, thus this second letter dated: 14 – 3 – 2004. Obviously the WTB seeks to avoid an answer which can be meaning none other than they are afraid to admit agreement with my campaign. I cannot see the so called “Welsh Media” tackling the WTB on my behalf but hopefully you will. Please copy this letter and write yourselves to the WTB and see if they will answer you. At same time write to CADW backing campaign for a Welsh Battle Field Register. Yes! Please do write to your Election Candidate and ask if they will support this campaign. I would appreciate any news of “Positive or Negative” response. Diolch yn Fawr. Gethin.

Annwyl WTB

See enclosed ‘Open Letter’ on subject of a ‘Welsh Battlefields Campaign’ with purpose of seeing that there comes into existence a ‘Welsh Battlefield Register’.

Would the Welsh Tourism Board not agree that the preservation, protection and then promotion of Welsh Battlefields and Welsh Military History is of equal value to promotion of Wales as is the case in England. Further, as is the case in England such as Welsh Battlefields and Welsh Military History have a part to play in tourism, although at moment neither you or any other tourism bodies in Wales as of yet realised the potential of this.

You will of course be aware of Military History Heritage and Battlefield Tourism worldwide, also the interest in such via publishing and Television. I am thinking in particular of the War Walks series and recent BBC 2 series ‘Battlefield Britain’ also via a huge verity of web sites. All are means that could be exploited in Wales in a number of interests not least by Welsh Tourism. You may not however, be fully aware of this potential and thus I suggest our WBfC Report 2005 may be of value to you. (upon request) Further, if then you are unsure how this may be specifically more widely developed in interest of tourism in a number of interesting ways, including how to link into world interest in Military Heritage Tourism. Please note I am available to clarify what needs to be done and show how such may be achieved.

Finally with the aforementioned in mind would you not agree that there is a need for a Welsh Battlefield Register? To give so much attention to Anglo – Norman castles and not to the military struggle that brought them into existence is rather perverse.

Yn Ffyddlon.

G.Gruffydd.

Welsh Rembrancer and Heritage Researcher.

I'r GAD: Welsh Battlefield Campaign Bulletin Haf 2005

Please note since this item was first published much as changed, of which I shall be posting information on soon under heading: WONDERFUL NEWS!

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I''r Gad

Welsh Battlefield Bulletin. Haf 2005.

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I will endeavour to publish and issue the Bulletin quarterly but please contributions would be very welcome. If this exercise attracts sufficient support then down the line, it could be basis of a Welsh Battlefield Web Site, So if interested in helping out with this initiative please do get in touch not least with those contributions. I can be reached via gethin.apgruffydd@ntlworld.com

Welsh Battlefield Registration Campaign.

I'r Gad - The Campaign Continues.

We Can Only Wish:

First off, in this issue i want to firmly draw your attention to America and the excellent work being done there regards Battlefield preservation and protection by a number of organisations, official & otherwise. Of course ''European America" is a "young nation" so it desperately needs to record and acknowledge it's "Young History" and it certainly does this with some vigour. As example of voluntary bodies see via the web, such as CENTRAL VIRGINIA BATTLEFIELDS TRUST also visit the GETTYSBURG web site, the number of monuments & markers at this battle site is amazing with over 1000. However, what I want to firmly grab your attention to, is the work of their NATIONAL PARKS SERVICE and their AMERICAN BATTLEFIELD PROTECTION PROGRAMME, see in particular on this site CWSAC - CIVIL WAR SITES ADVISORY COMMISSION report 1993 (updated 1997). Please do read this and following contents on this site:

* PROGRAMME IN BRIEF.
*APPB PROJECT GRANTS.
*LAND & WATER CONSERVATION GRANTS. (Very interesting)

and not least pay attention to:

* WHAT YOU CAN DO. (See my appeal to you, to set up Battlefield Sites Friends Survey, this section will be good guide for you)

also
* CIVIL WAR SITES PRESERVATION ACT.
and
* CONSERVATION GUIDANCE.

Over the coming months I shall myself give this excellent web site much more attention with particular ref to various aforementioned ACTS, yes I have what the ASSEMBLY CAN DO - IN MIND. Anyone out there got any suggestions in this area? of course if I were to approach the Assembly with such proposals I really would need help on how best to draft such proposals in a suitable way, Yes HELP!.

Before, I leave America (on the web) please note that I have not forgotten native America (see previous material I have issued), I invite you once again to go and view via the web the new Native American Memorial at the site of the BATTLE OF THE LITTLE BIG HORN. While still in North America I draw your attention to the Canadian WELCOME TO THE PLAINS OF ABRAHAM BATTLEFIELD PARK Web site and see work of the CANADIAN NATIONAL PARKS SERVICE,

Having viewed the concerns and work of the American & Canadian National Parks Service, then I am encouraged to look in direction of our 'WELSH NATIONAL PARKS SERVICE' and see what they may do here in Cymru regards our WELSH BATTLEFIELDS PRESERVATION & PROTECTION.

A FORGOTTEN GRAND SLAM

FIVE WELSH VICTORIES - Not Many Know About?

* Brwydr Rhyd y Groes 1039.
* Brwydr Crug Mawr 1136.
* Brwydr Coed Lathen 1257.
* Brwydr Moel y Don 1282.
* Brwydr Bryn Glas 1402.

A simple timeline of Welsh Battles not only helps give us a grasp of important aspects of Welsh Military History but also would with a complete ''pen ultimate'' Cymric Regnal List also provide us with a useful time line of early Cymric Political History. (The latter regnal list I hope to have available by 2007). Thus, briefly below, the basics stepping stones of such time line:

* Brwydr Rhyd y Groes 1039. was a battle fought between Gruffydd ap Llywelyn of Gwynedd and a Mercian Army, this Cymric victory made way clear for Gruffydd to forge ahead to unify Cymru and become the one & only last King of a united Cymru. (also read up on the later important battle of Rhosgoch).

* Brwydr Crug Mawr 1136. was the ''mother of all battles'' that saved the Cymry from being totally over run by the Anglo - Normans, as result of this battle 'Pura Wallie' would remain a reality for another 150 years, time enough to consolidate Welsh Laws, culture and political customs upon which Owain Glyndwr would build his dream of a united Cymric Nation. (Also read up on the Battle of Llwchwr and the tragic battle of Maes Gwenllian, fought at Cydweli in same year). I have visited number of locations connected with this battle, will re write my notes sometime.

* Brwydr Coed Lathen 1257. Maredudd ap Rhys and Maredudd ab Owain allies of Llywelyn ap Gruffydd win an outstanding victory against the Anglo - Normans of the west during last days of May 1257. It was such victory which contributed greatly to the English King recognising Llywelyn III in 1267 as 'Tywysog Cymru'. (I have years ago walked the two potential battle sites, will have to dig out my notes and see if i can pioneer this as a war walk, see below)

* Brwydr Moel y Don 1282. The full account of the military campaigns of 1282 are largely over looked by our focusing attention on the death of Llywelynb III at Aberedw (Cilmeri wrong) and we should view the military situation 1282 - 83 as an whole. Not least we need to appreciate the well fought resistance by Cymric Forces in the North to thwart English advances on Gwynedd, this forced the English to attempt a flanking attack from Ynys Mon which ended in disaster at Moel y Don in Tachwedd of that year. Given the fact of this stubborn & couragous combat by the Cymry, if Llywelyn had not been assassinated could he have led the Cymru to eventual Military victory. Evidence suggests not but may be it could have been the case of ''For want of a nail'' (I will explain that again - see my work on Alternate History - available on request), that Llywelyn III may just have sneaked a victory? (also read up on the Battle of Maes Madog 1294 which comes about due to the consequences of 1282). I visited this site again last year but could not find the 1982 placed Cofiwn plaque?

* Brwydr Bryn Glas 1402. Surely by now, there is no real need for me to have to give even the briefest of accounts of this battle. I would expect after the BBC 2 programme on British Battle Fields, which included Bryn Glas that most patriots are aware of this Battle. Surely after all the work of Embassy Glyndwr your also more than a little aware of other ''Glyndwr battles'' as at Hyddgen 1401, Stalling Down 1403, Graig y dorth 1404 and the disasterous battle of Pwll Melyn 1405. I have visited this site on a number of occasions and in the mid 70's placed an 'home made wooden & hand painted plaque' there and had my 3 very young daughters unveil it. Have heard that very soon the site will at long last get a proper official plaque.

So there you are folks a Forgotten Grand Slam, I have deliberately left out locations and other details of these battles in hope your curiousity is suitably aroused to search out such information for your selves.

Other Cymric battles you may be interested in sussing out as follows:

Battles of Cerreg y Gwyddyl, Mynydd Carn, Gwaeterw, Bron yr Erw, Tal y Moelfre, Bron y garth (aka Crogen), again i have not dated or provided information so as to encourage you to go and do some research and study.

I have not forgotten that the Cymry fought amongst them selves as much as they fought "Everyone Else", this will be a subject for future feature in I'r Gad - WELSH BATTLEFIELDS BULLETIN.

If any of these aforementioned and other Battlefields are near you please take a little active interest in the preservation & protection by at minimum doing a basic survey on my behalf to help me build up a data base with photographs if possible or/and establish a local 'Battle Field Friends Survey Group' to make a start on working toward their eventual registration locally at first with your council and then hopefully one day nationally via Cadw or the Assembly.

What ever, a Welsh Battle all Welsh People should know about is the BATTLE/Massacre OF IRFON BRIDGE 11 DECEMBER 1282 (725th anniversary in 2007) that would compare with England's BATTLE OF HASTINGS 1066. Suggest you do your own ''Vox Pop'' around and about in your own community and see how many People (English or Welsh) know of either? I will be interested in the results, inc how much individuals know other than getting the year in which the battle was fought correct.

In above connection I would like to draw your attention to the following recently issued statement complaining

that English School children know little about English Heroes and know more about other nations history (It is really very illuminating what Simon Thurley, chief executive of English Heritage has to say, too much for me to copy out here, see report in the Sunday Telegraph 8 May 2005 via the web). Now aint that interesting, so what of Welsh School children? other interesting facts that came up in the article: Alf Wilkinson, the head of the Historical Association agreed as did Andrew Roberts, a military historian who has just chaired a Conservative Party advisory panel on history teaching, which is to report soon.

If enough of you were to volunteer to aid & assist, I would consider organising a more detailed ''out & about'' in public place as a town centre survey on public knowledge of our history with regards to sex & age, English & Cymraeg speaking. Such survey would of course have to be carried out in a in verity of urban & rural locations. Regards questions & any thing else of relevance, all suggestions welcome. I have tried in the past to get the ''Media in Cymru'' to do something along these lines but none were interested, neither was Fforwm Hanes Cymru, which surprised me.

Alternate History - A chance to win battles we lost?

OK! enough of the heavy stuff, how's about some light reading and creativity, well? not always the case. Read Robert Sobels book: 'For want of a nail', if Burgoyne had won at the battle of Saratoga. American War of Independence would have had a totally different out come, this book is written as if a students heavy duty text book, inc footnotes and bibliography all fictional. If you did not know any American History at all, for a while you could be fooled until you reached a time period you had some familiarity with. Many Alternate History works are based on the outcome of a battle as 'Bring the Jubilee' (Gettysburg) and 'Pavane' (Spanish Armada). There is almost 'Zilch' in this connection concerning Cymru, so why not give it a go. Write a short piece on theme of a Welsh Battle as an alternate turning point in the history of Cymru, my suggested choice would be the Battle of Mynydd Carn 1081. This battle was in the 11th century of as much great significance as was Hastings toEngland, there are other battles you could of course choose as Battle of Crug Mawr 1136 or why not focus on Owain Glyndwr's Invasion of England (Woodbury Hill or Bust!) in late August of 1405. I have been attempting with out much success (again! I do not seem to be a very good "lobbyist") to interest "Welsh Literature Bodies" etc to sponsor a writing competition on this theme, for details contact & request info on my endeavours in this area. For stacks of info on Alternate History just do a web search.

WAR WALKS WALES.

See BBC MID WALES WEB SITE For Battle Of Hyddgen War Walk pioneered by John Morgan of Aberystwyth Ramblers, read before going Ian Flemings (not he of 007) book: The Battle of Hyddgen, Glyndwr's first victory, Gwasg Lolfa. If any one pioneers any more Welsh War Walks please let me know send details for this Bulletin. Diolch! Not quite a War Walk, Phil Yaxley of Corwen has pioneered an Owain Glyndwr trail from Sycharth to Glyndyfrdwy. In 1982, I was much younger and fitter and with one other and a young lad walked some 21 miles from Cilmeri to Abaty Cwm Hir, all accross rough country, that was really pioneering. Any one up for doing it again in 2007 to mark 600th anniversary of 1282? Another interesting walk with some connection to the Battle of Usk 1405 is the trail from Penrhys to Llantarnam, written up my Madeline Grey (see Web 'Penrhys Pilgrimage'). Who can tell me what the connection is with aforementioned battle. No prizes i am afraid.

Over due thank you.

To Major Martin Everett, Customer Service Manager of the Regimental Museum of the Royal Regiment of Wales (24th/41st Foot) for replying to my letter and material sent with very welcome usefully detailed reply providing me with advice and information. Further thank you for enclosing photocopy of article: Appendix of book: Famous Welsh Battles by Phillip Warner, most useful references. I had written to the curators of Military Museums in Wales that they may wish to prompt into existence a body similar to that which exists in Ireland: The Military Heritage of Ireland Trust, this body concerns itself with Irish Military History at home & abroad from ancient to modern times. I would have thought that some thing similar for Welsh Military History would compliment work of a Welsh Battlefield Trust but as of yet no move forward in this direction either.

Trafalgar.

PS: Yes! by now you should know it is 'BATTLE OF TRAFALGAR', Nelson and all that. I do not begrudge all this getting the attention it deserves but i am more than a little annoyed upon seeing just how much Governmental & other backing & heavy duty financing all this is getting through out Britain. IT REALLY IS MASSIVE, complete with endless books, Commemorative Coins & Stamps etc, etc, etc. The Comparison with the absolutely total disinterest in Welsh History in Cymru by similar bodies; Assembly, CADW & WTB also including local authorities etc - SHOULD NOT BE LOST ON YOU OK! Just sit back now for the rest of the year and watch how much attention TRAFALGAR, NELSON & 1805 GET COMPARED TO OWAIN GLYNDWR, PARLIAMENT & CORONATION RE 1404 - 2004 Or how much attention WELSH BATTLES - DO NOT GET?. However, we only have ourselves to blame.

Letters! Letters! Letters! Letters! Letters! Letters!

If you do nothing else to support the Welsh Battlefield Campaign, do at the very least write a few letters in support to bodies such as Cadw & RCAHMW, MEP's, MP's & AM's also to the Media, not least your local media. EVERY BIT HELPS!

Still no reply from the WTB - see last bulletin.

MUST HAVE BOOK.

The Welsh Wars of Independence by David More, Tempus Books.

A new book on the Battle of Azincourt actually mentions that it was a 'Anglo - Welsh Army' that fought the French not as usually stated, an "English Army".

Conclusion

That's it folks, please remember your contributions very welcome, after reading this Bulletin do rush to your P.C and do a "Google Search" for 'BATTLEFIELDS' save in favourites and the 'World of Battlefields History' will be there for you to dip into from time to time. Hopefully then like i you will become amazed how much other countries/peoples are concerned about their Military History & Battlefields but how we - JUST IGNORE, well not every one. Some good news BATTLE OF USK PLAQUE being unveiled in early JULY & I will "register" the Battlefield the very same day. For further information. you know where to find me.

DO PASS ON THIS BULLETIN TO OTHERS WHOM MAY BE INTERESTED.

Hwyl

I'r Gad.

Gethin.

Confederate Anxt and the New South.

Confederate Anxt

with the

“New South”.

The American Government has already began a funding programme with 150th (1861 – 2011 that’s thinking ahead?) anniversary of civil war in mind. Federal grants and subsidies are being provided for restoring civil war cemeteries and up dating Civil War Heritage Interpretation Centres. This in turn has led to much controversy which is of some great interest in matters of Heritage promotion and preservation. However, first I have needed to go back to the Atlanta Olympics. The approach of the Atlanta Olympics led to a campaign being initiated by the NAACP and other groups seeking assurance that the perceived “Confederate Flag” (Stars and Bars, actually the Confederate Battle Flag) would not be flown in association with the Olympics or other wise there would have been organised a major International Boycott. This concentrated the mind of the Atlanta and Olympic authorities and the 'Confederate Battle Flag' was kept well out of sight. Following this the NAACP continued it’s campaign to have the “Southern States” revoke official use of the flag, a campaign largely of economic boycott has greatly succeeded to such ends. It is now only Mississippi that officially flies this flag.

The issues raised by this controversy revolves around the use of this flag by the KKK and other White Power and Nazi racist groups, although generally the matter is one that this flag symbolises a pro – slavery South, the spirit of which equates with an “Old South” now rejected by many in favour of what many determine as a “New South”. Supporters of the “Confederate Flag” and of what they see as “Old Southern Heritage”, particularly respectful remembrance of Confederate dead argue otherwise and have in the past organised massive Pro – Confederate Flag Campaigns and Rallies. All this has led to major confrontations on the WWW with a number of very interesting and illuminating web sites on this subject and all its many arguments for and against. These campaigns also have extended to “Car Flag Tag” campaigns (The U.S. Army forbids use of Confederate Flags as do most educational establishments). Now the issue revolves around Federal government demands that any claim for grants and subsidies by Civil War Heritage Interpretation Centre will only be available if hence the issue of slavery is introduced in heritage interpretations, in past left out as attempt to heal civil war wounds between the North and South. Search Web for Further Information, starting with the below:

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AskMe: What's the controversy with the Confederate flag?
They're asking if he actually supports states' flying the confederate flag, rather than asking if he thinks it should be a federal issue or a state issue. ...www.ontheissues.org/AskMe/confederate.htm - 18k - Cached - Similar pages
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Flags of the Confederate States of America - Wikipedia, the free ...
The "Confederate Flag", a 20th century combination of the Battle Flag's colors with ... What is now called "The Confederate Flag" or "The Confederate Battle ...en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flags_of_the_Confederate_States_of_America - 79k - Cached - Similar pages
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Confederate Flag Controversy
The Confederate battle flag, called the "Southern Cross" or the cross of St. Andrew, has been described variously as a proud emblem of Southern heritage and ...www.infoplease.com/spot/confederate1.html - 21k - Cached - Similar pages

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A Welsh Confederate Soldier.

Somewhere in Wales there is a grave upon which there is the name of a young Welshman who fought for the South in the American Civil War. However, whilst his name his inscribed along side other family members, he himself is not bueried in the grave but lays bueried in a Confederate War cemetary. I am at present researching out further information on this interesting connection between Wales and the Southern States, most Welsh fought for the north and those who fought for the South are usually ignore by Welsh sympathies with the north. However, history is there to be witness, not ignored, it would be somehow sad not to recognise this grave and seek to know more about how this Welshman left his own country to live and die in the new world. There are some famous Welsh connections with the South during the American Civil war, Jefferson Davies President of the Confederate States had Welsh Family connection as did Catesby ap Roger Jones surgon and commander of the Conferate Iron Clad C.S.S. Virginia. Interestingly is use of 'ap' as the family is in main traced back to an English Aristocratic family. It was vogue amongst the ''Aristocracy'' of the ''Old South'' to adopt use of 'ap', 'Fitz' and 'Mac' to give them more status in society, if this is true or not of Catesby ap Roger Jones I do not know, does anyone out there know? Perhaps the most exciting connection of Wales with the Confederate South is in the story of C.S.S. Alabahma, see links below:

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CSS Alabama Association (USA) - Home Page
The C.S.S. Alabama was the most successful ship to ever wage war on the commerce of a great ... CSS Alabama enters Table Bay at 10:00 AM August 5, 1863. ...www.css-alabama.com/ - 11k - Cached - Similar pages
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Catesby ap Roger Jones CSA
Catesby ap Roger Jones, commander of the Confederate States of America (CSA) Naval ... Gatsby's family can be traced through several knights to Sir William ...myselma.net/people/jones.htm - 7k - Cached - Similar pages

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The Fate of the CSS Virginia
Inevitably, when you are talking about the wreck of the USS Monitor, people want to know what happened to the Union ironclad’s Confederate antagonist. ...home.att.net/~iron.clad/thefateofthecssva.html - 21k - Cached - Similar pages

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I am myself working on a long term research project in this connection, soon I hope to post to this blog, information on my work to date.

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Gethin Gruffydd.