Tredegar in 1849
Hunt and Co. published town directories in which could be
found details of local businesses, public buildings
and utilities along with
a listing of prominent townspeople -
the forerunner of today's ' Yellow Pages '
The following extract comes from an edition published in 1849.
Tredegar is a market town of increasing importance, in the parish of Bedwelty(sic),
24 miles N.W. from Newport, 12 S. from Abergavenny, 32 N. from Cardiff,
26 S.E. from Brecon, 8 E. from Merthyr Tydfil and 156 N.W. from London,
situate in a district abounding in mineral treasures and contiguous
to the confines of South Wales.
This town may date its rapid rise from the attraction it presented to
the mining interest; forty years ago it was a rude and unprofitable spot,
occupied by only a few poor cottagers, but since the application of art
and science have developed its rich mineral resources, the capitalist
has been amply repaid for his speculation and at the same time a vast amount
of human labour has been called into unceasing requisition, indeed the
whole of this locality may be said to be dependent upon the coal and iron
works, which are carried on with much spirit and activity.
The wealthy iron masters have constructed railroads in various
directions, for conveying their manufactures; the principal one is the
Sirhowy, a line which extends to Newport, where the products of this
district are shipped and exported.
The town now contains many respectable shops and taverns: and in a
central situation, standing in a spacious area, is a neat and commodious
market house, built some few years since at the sole cost of Mr.Homfray.
Gas works have recently been introduced.
Magistrates meet in petty sessions at the Rock Inn monthly, and a county
court for the recovery of debts not exceeding £20 is also held once a month.
To provide for the spiritual wants of this important location, a new church
or chapel of ease, dedicated to St.George, was erected at a cost of £3000
in 1836, this structure is in the Saxon or early Norman style, capable of holding
about 1000 persons.
A public school provides instruction for poor youths, which is supported
by contributions among the workmen, and there are various benefit societies.
A well supplied market is held on Saturday.
