Hidden Histories of Blaenavon

This community film project explores and celebrates key figures who helped shape Blaenavon town during the Victorian period.

‘Hidden Histories of Blaenavon’ brings to life historical portraits showcased at the Blaenavon Community Museum at Blaenavon Workmen’s Hall as well as lesser-known stories.

Contrasting testimonies of imagined characters of young people whose lives were shaped by improvements in and availability of education during the period are also included.

The research and script writing for the film was undertaken by local people, including young people and groups including:

The film was created by Cymru Creations, a film company based in Tredegar.

The actors and actresses who starred in the film are local people.

Quotes from participants:

“I enjoyed being part of a project for Blaenavon and am now proud of who I am and how Blaenavon has advanced. The film was brilliantly put together. I loved the opportunity”.

“I thought the community input was wonderful. It demonstrated the community spirit active in Blaenavon. It was quite clever, brought humour to the narrative being presented through the history of Blaenavon”.

The film features 11 historical characters:

  • Character 1: Mildred Clara Davies (An inspiring example of a female chemist who took over the family business on Broad Street)
  • Character 2: Councillor Charles White JP/Justice of the Peace (Somerset born, skilled tradesman who became Manager of the Blaenavon Gas and Water Works)
  • Character 3: Walter Henry Hughes (Born 1859, a tailor on Broad Street who established the first Blaenavon Workmen’s Institute)
  • Character 4: William Lewis Cook (Born 1876, passionate about improving education and working and living conditions)
  • Character 5: Sarah Hopkins (Founder of St Peter’s School in 1816)
  • Character 6: Councillor Henry Morgan Davies JP/ Justice of the Peace (A chemist and dentist on Broad Street who improved living standards)
  • Character 7: John Griffith Williams (Instrumental in the creation of Broad Street and advancements in utilities, including street lighting)
  • Character 8: David Watkins (10 year old pupil at Sarah Hopkins school)
  • Character 9: Evan Evans (David’s friend who has to work and can’t attend school)
  • Character 10: Sian Price (8 years old, her parents need help with household chores so she can’t attend school)
  • Character 11: Megan Jones (Attends school and loves learning, aspires to be a pupil teacher)