Calypso & Coal
For an extensive history into the lives of individuals from the Caribbean, it is worth looking towards our historic docks and industrial centres. Many of the individuals listed were Merchant Seamen who found work on shore, in the Collieries throughout the South Wales Coal Field and in our steel industry. Below you will find some of these individuals who made Wales their home.
Our publication titled ‘Calypso & Coal’ from Port to Pit, is now available from ourselves and Amazon.co.uk
Others Include:
George Hyden-Antigua-1849 (Later lived in Newport)
Jeremiah Gray-Jamaica (Later lived in Newport)
Lewis Williams-
Felix White Hanlan- Jamaica (Lived in Newport and Merthyr Tydfil).
Wales’ Black Miners'
It is important to recognise our Industrial past as being the origin of many significant migrations to Wales. Individuals travelled globally for work and Wales (with its vast Coal exports) witnessed significant change as increased labour was required to help with the increase in demand.
Our project initially began by charting the migration of our families who were largely from the Caribbean. It quickly became clear that a migration from other significant mining communities (such as West Virginia and Pennsylvania) could be seen in Wales. It was not uncommon for Colliers in Mining communities to look for work in Pennsylvania and many other mining towns however the evidence of their existence seems to be better represented. Below you will find details of some of the individuals who worked in the Collieries and became part of the community. Their memory is largely lost and it is here that we aim to offer great representation. We encourage family members to get in touch if they would like to know more.
We must begin with a fantastic image which was kindly featured on BBC’s Weatherman walking. The image represents some of the many families in South Wales.
Families of Gelligaer who worked across the South Wales Coal Field sinking Pit Shafts, as Hewers, Stokers and Firemen.
Pictured in front Row is Elsie Alfred Langford (Sam) holding his daughter, Wife, Lyd (right) and daughter Barbara (Child in White dress).
Image from Private Collection
Please do get in touch if you recognise anyone on the image.
Black Miners in Wales can be found throughout the Coalfield. Our records indicate a large migration of labour coming from Merchant Seamen who transferred skills that they used while on board ships. Some of their roles included but were not limited to;
Sinker
Carpenter
Stoker
Hewer
Fireman
African-American Colliers from Pennsylvania, New Orleans and Alabama can also be found working in Wales.
A Hero in Treherbert
Our research often identifies those who have a special story. One in particular which has been forgotten is that of Mr Frederick Drakes from Barbados.
Frederick (or Fred as he was known) lived in Treherbert with his wife and young family. His Daughter Gertrude was sadly killed when she was severely burned after playing with matches. Throughout his Life, Fred saved a number of individuals and became a local hero. Following the tragic death of a young man name Albert Prince, (who drowned in the feeder pond for the Ynysfeio and Bute Colliery) he was tasked with the job of retrieving his body. It is reported that in front of Thousands, Fred swam over 20ft to the bottom of the feeder and upon retrieving it, was awarded a cheque from the colliery owners.
Article Source: Western Mail & South Wales News, Thursday, July 18th, 1929.
Frederick Drakes, Born in Barbados.
Clubs and Dance halls
The Silver Sands, Newport.
Do you remember the Silver Sands in Newport? Chances are that if you do, you graced the club with a night of your dancing and many will remember the food. Curried Goat and Cow Foot soup being a particular favourite.
The Silver Sands was located at 155 Commercial rd in Pillgwenlly, Newport. Ran by Mrs Eulah White and her husband James from Jamaica, the club was on the radar of many who travelled to Newport to sample what the Newport Nightlife had to offer. Famed for it’s Reggae music and traditional food, The Silver Sands was a firm favourite for many in Newport and beyond.
For More information on the Silver Sands, information can be sourced on www.peoplescollection.Wales
Many thanks to the family of Mrs White for their support of this article.
