Product Description

This concise and informative guide looks back to the customs and traditions of a predominantly rural Wales during the nineteenth century - the revelries of the corn harvest; winter nights by the fireside, knitting, telling stories and making rush candles; overcoming poverty and hardship by raising funds at a cwrw bach...Each chapter is complemented by several eye-witness accounts - vivid descriptions of a forgotten way of life. Customs are arranged into four main groups: those centred on the hearth and home, agriculture, community life and the parish church. In this book Trefor M. Owen explores their origins and examines the changes they underwent during the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries in response to industrialization and the growth of Nonconformity. He also looks briefly at the development of folklore studies and the recorders of folk culture.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #861006 in Books
• Published on: 2006-08-01
• Original language: English
• Binding: Paperback
• 108 pages

Review
`This guide is certainly pocket-sized, but the depth and breadth of its contents are quite remarkable, and equal to what is often found in a much bulkier tome.' Lore and Language `... Trefor M. Owen has admirably succeeded in introducing his reader to a wealth of information on the social history, customs and traditions of Wales.' Rural Wales

About the Author
Trefor M. Owen is former Curator at the Museum of Welsh Life, and a recognized authority on Welsh folk traditions.