Hollybush

EVAN JAMES 1809-1893

JAMES JAMES 1832-1902

Evan James lived in the Ancient Druid, Hollybush
where his son, James was born in 1832.
They later moved to Pontypridd where they collaborated
in writing the Welsh National Anthem ( Hen Llad fy Nhadau )
James composing the music and Evan creating the words.

Argoed

ZEPHANIAH WILLIAMS 1795-1874 Born at Gwrhay near Argoed Son of a local farmer, he moved to Sirhowy in 1828 as mineral agent for the local iron company. Became landlord of the Royal Oak, Nantyglo in 1839 by which time he was an influential figure in the Chartist movement. Led the Ebbw Vale and Nantyglo contingent on the famous assault on Newport. See Chartists

Blackwood & Pontllanfraith

MANIC STREET PREACHERS James Dean Bradfield, Nicky Wire and Sean Moore - Blackwood's very own Super Group Click for official Manics website

DAVID ALEXANDER Singer and Entertainer. Born in David St., Blackwood, David Alexander amassed a huge following of fans in the U.K. and abroad with songs like: "If I could see the Rhondda one more time"  "Working Man" and "Come Home Rhondda Boy" Click for official David Alexander website (Suggested by Danny)

DAME MARGARET PRICE From Woodfieldside, Blackwood Internationally reknowned soprano and soloist. She was an established performer at the major opera houses throughout the world, having worked with some of the most distinguished conductors of our time. Sadly died of heart failure 28th January 2011

CAPTAIN SIR HENRY MORGAN Famous buccaneer and later Governor of Jamaica. Reputedly owned and lived in what is now the Penllwyn Hotel, Pontllanfraith.

ALUN PASK Alun Edward Islwyn Pask Blackwood born. Gained 26 consecutive Welsh International Rugby Union caps from 1961 to 1967 - 6 times captain. Capped 8 times for British Lions. Hailed as one of the finest No.8 forwards of his time. Tragically died during a fire at his home in 1995.

Ynysddu

Rev. WILLIAM THOMAS ' ISLWYN ' 1832-1878 Born at Ynysddu, Islwyn became one of the greatest Welsh 'modern' poets His works were greatly inflenced by his religious convictions, the beauty of his birthplace and the tragedy he experienced during his short life. See Ynysddu Page

RICKY VALANCE Born in Ynysddu in 1940, Ricky (David Spencer) became the first Welsh artist to hit the No.1 spot in the pop charts with his million seller "Tell Laura I Love Her" in 1960.

Cwmfelinfach

DARREN MORGAN Snooker Player and Commentator. Achievements: World Amateur Champion 1987. Welsh Amateur Champion 1987. Turned professional 1988. Embassy World Championship semi-finalist 1994. Benson and Hedges Irish Masters Champion 1996, beating Steve Davis  9 - 8 in final. Captained Wales to victory in 1999 Nations Cup.