A Tour Throughout South Wales and Monmouthshire Informative Summary

Overview:

This travelogue, written in 1803 by J. T. Barber, takes the reader on a comprehensive journey through South Wales and Monmouthshire. Barber provides a detailed and insightful account of the region’s history, culture, and natural beauty. The book is a treasure trove of information on castles, abbeys, and ancient monuments, as well as picturesque landscapes and the unique customs of the Welsh people.

Barber’s writing is engaging and full of vivid descriptions. He meticulously documents the physical features of the region, offering detailed observations on castles, churches, abbeys, and natural wonders. He also provides a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the Welsh people, their customs, and their struggles. The reader encounters a range of characters, from miners to noblemen, and gains insight into the social dynamics of the time.

Key Findings:

Historical Importance: The tour highlights the significance of South Wales and Monmouthshire in British history, particularly during the Roman occupation and the later struggle for Welsh independence. The region is densely populated with ancient monuments, castles, and religious foundations, providing tangible evidence of the various forces that have shaped the landscape.
Natural Beauty: Barber captures the diverse and breathtaking natural beauty of the region, from the rugged mountains and valleys to the stunning coastal views. He describes the dramatic landscapes, the rushing rivers, and the captivating flora and fauna that make this region so unique.
Cultural Insights: The book offers a nuanced look at Welsh culture and customs in the early 19th century. Barber notes the role of traditional farming practices, the prevalence of female laborers, and the unique ways in which Welsh people navigate social interactions.

Learning:

Medieval Architecture: Readers will learn about the development of different styles of medieval architecture, including Saxon, Norman, and Gothic, through Barber’s detailed descriptions of castles, churches, and abbeys. He illustrates the evolution of these styles through his observations on the various structures, highlighting key features and differences.
Feudal Society: The tour provides a glimpse into the realities of feudal society in Wales, focusing on the power dynamics between Welsh princes, Norman lords, and local inhabitants. The reader will gain an understanding of the impact of castles and fortified structures on the social and political landscape.
Ancient History: Barber details the presence of Roman settlements and artifacts in South Wales and Monmouthshire, revealing the lasting influence of Roman occupation on the region. He explores evidence of Roman roads, fortifications, and even the remains of Roman cities.

Historical Context:

The Napoleonic Wars: This tour was written in 1803, during a time of political instability and war in Europe. The Napoleonic Wars had just begun, and the book reflects the anxieties of the era, particularly through the author’s encounters with smugglers and fears of French invasion.
Industrial Revolution: The book also hints at the emerging effects of the Industrial Revolution in the region. Barber observes the growth of coal and iron industries and the impact of these activities on the landscape and the lives of the local population.

Facts:

The Romans conquered the Silures and Dimitæ in the reign of Vespasian. This was achieved through the military campaigns of Julius Frontinus.
The Saxons did not acquire any settled dominion in Wales but partially overran the country, obliging it to pay tribute. This was particularly evident in the reign of Edward the Confessor.
Wales was divided into numerous petty sovereignties or lordships after the Romans left in 408 AD. These were often in conflict with each other and with the Imperial Prince, leading to a period of instability.
The Anglo-Norman dominion in Wales was established through incursions by Norman leaders, creating feuds and taking advantage of power struggles among the native Welsh. This led to the proliferation of castles across the region, as Norman chieftains sought to secure their conquests.
Wales became definitively united to the crown of England following the defeat of Llewelyn by Edward the First. This marked the end of Welsh independence.
The first certain accounts of Wales are from the Roman invasion. Before this, we have little reliable information about the region.
The Welch, especially in the western regions, were noted for their industrious female population who were always knitting, even while carrying loads or driving cattle. This highlights the vital role of women in the local economy.
The “window tax” had a negative impact on the economic and social landscape of Wales. It forced many families to leave their homes due to the increased burden, contributing to the decay of some towns and villages.
Swansea Castle was built in 1113 AD by Henry Beaumont, Earl of Warwick. It was built to secure the conquest of Gowerland from the Welch.
A large tract of land around Swansea is covered with coal, copper, and iron works. The development of these industries was further facilitated by the construction of a canal.
Llanelly, a small irregular town, was once the seat of Sir John Stepney, but has since fallen into disrepair. This is attributed in part to the “window tax.”
Kidwelly Castle was built soon after the Conquest by Maurice de Londres. It was a significant fortress and remained the property of the English crown.
Caermarthen, one of the most wealthy and polite towns in Wales, was once the capital of all Wales. It was the center of political and economic life for the ancient Britons.
The famous Merlin was born in Caermarthen in 480 AD. He is often depicted as a magician, though his reputation is more likely tied to his extraordinary wisdom and learning.
Llanstephan Castle was built by the sons of Uchtred, Prince of Merionethshire, in 1138 AD. It was a significant stronghold and changed hands several times between Welsh princes and Norman invaders.
Laugharne Castle was likely built by Norman and Flemish settlers after their conquest of the region. It was later captured by Llewelyn in 1215 AD.
Tenby is a town built on a narrow rock projecting into the sea. It was once a prominent fishing town but has since grown into a fashionable resort.
Pembroke Castle is famous for being the birthplace of Henry VII. It also played a significant role in the defense of Charles I during the English Civil War.
The Precelly Mountain is considered the highest in South Wales. It offers breathtaking views over a vast expanse of land and sea.
Cardigan Castle was built in 1160 AD by Gilbert de Clare but was captured and partially destroyed by Rhys ap Gryffith. It was a site of great strategic importance.

Statistics:

Swansea Castle was built in 1113 AD.
The man who fell from the Swansea Castle parapet fell from a height of nearly 80 feet. He miraculously survived with only a slight broken head.
Arthur’s Stone, a cromlech near Llanridian, is thought to weigh nearly 20 tons. It sits on six to seven supporting stones.
The English army, commanded by Ranolph Earl of Chester, was defeated in 1136 AD near Cardigan. Two barons and over 3000 soldiers were killed in the battle.
The revenues of Neath Abbey were valued at 150 pounds per annum at the time of the Dissolution of Monasteries.
The orangery at Margam Park is 327 feet in length. It houses over 150 orange trees.
The chapter house at Margam Abbey was 50 feet in diameter. It was a beautiful circular structure, but unfortunately collapsed due to neglect.
The largest stone in a cromlech near Llangoedmor is eight or nine yards in circumference. It rests on the ground at one edge.
The cathedral tower at St. David’s is 127 feet high.
The great hall in the bishop’s palace at St. David’s is 88 feet by 80 feet. It was built for the reception of King John.
The wall enclosing the cathedral at St. David’s is 1100 yards in circumference.
A stone at St. David’s headland is so large that 100 oxen could not drag it away. It was once used for the Druidic ordeal.
The French invasion of Fishguard in 1797 involved 1400 invaders. They surrendered to the Welsh peasantry after just a few days.
The salmon leap on the River Tivy is considered the most remarkable in Wales.
The coracle, a small boat made of basketwork and covered with hide, has been used in Welsh rivers for centuries.
The Devil’s Bridge over the Mynach River was built by the Monks of Starflower Abbey nearly 700 years ago.
The cataract of the Mynach has a perpendicular descent of 210 feet.
Hafod, a beautiful valley created by Col. Johnes, is over 12 miles in length. It is considered one of the most delightful retreats in the kingdom.
The single oak used to make the floor of the oak room at Tredegar Park is 42 feet by 27 feet.
The spire of Monmouth church is 200 feet high.
The statue of Henry V in Monmouth market place is considered awkward and disfiguring.
The Kymin hill near Monmouth offers views stretching over a circumference of nearly 300 miles.
The height of the Sugar Loaf mountain, near Abergavenny, is 1852 feet above the Gavenny rivulet. The Blorenge is 1720 feet and the Great Skyridd is 1498 feet high.
The revenues of Lanthony Abbey near Gloucester were valued at 648 pounds 19 shillings 11 pence at the time of the Dissolution of Monasteries.
The church at Lanthony Abbey is 212 feet long and 50 feet wide. It is a majestic ruin, devoid of ornament.
The height of the single arch of Pont-y-pridd, the celebrated bridge of Glamorganshire, is 147 feet.
The circumference of the Roman fortification at Caerleon is 1800 yards. The city was once nine miles in circumference, but has since fallen into ruin.
The Roman amphitheater at Caerleon is 74 yards by 64 yards and 6 feet deep.
The Wye is considered one of the most beautiful rivers in the UK. Its course provides a stunning landscape for the traveler.
The tide at Chepstow rises higher than anywhere else in the world, reaching 70 feet at its peak.
The highest recorded tide rise at Chepstow in recent history was 56 feet.
The Giant’s Cave at Piercefield features a mutilated colossal figure carved into the rock.
The double view at Piercefield offers views over nine counties.
The nave and choir of Tintern Abbey are 230 feet long and 33 feet wide. It is a majestic Gothic ruin.
The longest recorded tide rise at Chepstow was 70 feet.

Terms:

Cromlech: A megalithic structure consisting of a large flat stone supported on upright stones, often used for religious ceremonies or burial.
Barbican: An outwork, often fortified, positioned outside the main entrance to a castle.
Keep: The fortified tower within a castle, typically used as a last stand by the garrison.
Grout-work: A method of construction common in medieval castles where two parallel walls were filled with rubble and cemented with mortar.
Machicolations: A series of openings in a castle wall, often designed to allow boiling oil or other materials to be dropped on attackers.
Juliette: A high round tower, often serving as a keep.
Coracle: A small, round boat made of woven wicker covered with hide, used for fishing in Welsh rivers.
Loggan (or Rocking Stone): A large stone balanced on other stones, sometimes used in ancient religious practices.
Druidical: Relating to the Druids, a priestly class of ancient Britain, known for their religious practices and knowledge of nature.
Saxon: Relating to the Saxons, a Germanic people who invaded and settled in Britain during the 5th century AD.

Examples:

The story of the intoxicated man who fell from the parapet of Swansea Castle. This story highlights the hazards of the time and the man’s remarkable survival.
The encounter with the two farmers who mistook the travelers for ghosts or devils. This highlights the superstition and simplicity of rural life in Wales.
The story of William de Londres and his wife Constance, who founded Neath Abbey. This illustrates the common practice of Norman lords using wealth acquired through conquest to fund religious foundations.
The story of Sir Arnold Butler and the curse of Dunraven House. This story demonstrates the lingering effects of the violence and brutality of feudal society.
The account of the drowning of three of Mr. Vaughan’s sons. This illustrates the strong sense of divine retribution that permeated Welsh society.
The tale of the Welsh maid who admitted a man to her bed for accommodation. This provides evidence that “bedding” practices were not necessarily a sign of sexual activity.
The description of the miners and their families who lived in the ruins of Neath Abbey. This illustrates the poverty and difficult living conditions of the working class.
The account of the Welsh girl who acted as a guide to the ruins of Careg-cannon Castle. This portrays the kindness and generosity of the Welsh people.
The story of the huntsman’s horn echoing through the valley as the travelers made their way to Raglan Castle. This provides a vivid picture of rural life in Monmouthshire.
The description of the scene at Newport Fair, with its horse and cattle auctions and rustic games. This provides a lively picture of traditional Welsh entertainment.

Conclusion:

Barber’s “A Tour throughout South Wales and Monmouthshire” offers a comprehensive and captivating journey through the region in 1803. He skillfully blends detailed descriptions of the landscape with insightful observations on local culture and history. The reader is treated to a rich tapestry of medieval castles, ancient monuments, and picturesque scenery, as well as the struggles and triumphs of the Welsh people. Barber’s work is a valuable resource for understanding the history, culture, and natural beauty of this unique corner of Britain.

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