Pier Head, Cardiff - A handsome three-masted barque departs the West Basin under partial sail and in tow in the 1900's. I wonder where she was bound? This Stand Series card by W. H. S. & S. of Cardiff is an early example of bilingual instruction - see below. Another 'Llytthyr - Gerden or Post Card.' from the Penarth Dock Collection. [001]

The Infirmary, Cardiff - Another from the Stand Series of postcards by W. H. S. & S. of Cardiff complete with the Borough Arms and its insignia 'Villa Cardiff' [001] The Guide to Cardiff of 1897 states:- 'The Glamorganshire and Monmouthshire Infirmary - This handsome pile of buildings stands on an extensive site between Newport-road and Longcross-street, and is an important addition to the architectural features of that quarter of Cardiff. The infirmary as an institution is contemporaneous with the reign of Queen Victoria. The nucleus of the fund subsequently raised for its erection was obtained from the proceeds of the Gwent and Dyfed Royal Eisteddfod, which took place at Cardiff Castle in August, 1834, under the patronage of the Princess Victoria (her present Majesty), and the presidency of the Marquess of Bute. The sum realised was £350, to which his lordship added £1,000, and also gave the site upon which the present building stands.' [420]

The open top tram illustrated in the infirmary postcard above was probably a 1902 'Dick Kerr' 76 seater. As series of postcards issued by City of Cardiff Transport in 1977 describes the vehicle as 'one of the original electric tramcars, 34' 6" long and with eight wheels. They were withdrawn c.1924' Another piece of interesting social history from the Penarth Dock Collection. [001]

An early example of a bilingual document in Wales from the early 1900's - it is probably quite unique. The Free Wales Army of the mid-1960's onwards fought for Welsh road signs and for the right to compensation for the victim families of the Aberfan disaster, etc whilst others chose to fight more peaceably to obtain their objective.

One of my claims to fame is that I took part in a 'first' for the Welsh or was it the English speaking; anyway, it was the first TV play in Welsh to have English sub-titles. This was during the late 1960's and called 'Sami y Drymiwr' ('Sammy the drummer'). It was filmed in a church in Churchill Way, Cardiff with Welsh comedy stars Ryan a Ronnie. My part was to sit and play my soprano cornet as a member of the Excelsior Rope Works Band as and when required. In those days the entire recording was against a red light and all the scenes, from a bus stop, outside the pit and inside the bandroom were set up in the church with only two TV cameras filming the entire 30 minute play - all in one-take. [001]