Return Of Welsh National Anthem Memorial
The iconic Evan and James James Memorial has been restored to its former glory and returned to its rightful home at Ynysangharad War Memorial Park in Pontypridd.
Earlier this year, the memorial dedicated to the composers of the Welsh National Anthem, which has stood in front of the bandstand at the Pontypridd park since 1930, was carefully removed as part of the restoration project.
It has now made a welcome return to Ynysangharad War Memorial Park
Pontypridd weaver Evan James is said to have written the words to Hen Wlad Fy Nhadau (Land of my Fathers) one Sunday morning in January 1856 to accompany a tune composed by his son James.
It was first performed in public at Tabor Methodist Chapel in Maesteg, and came to great prominence after the 1858 National Eisteddfod held in Llangollen. It is now performed all over the world, especially at sporting events.
But after more than 90 years of being exposed to the elements, the Evan and James James Memorial was in need of some attention.
The Council removed the two statues which make up the memorial on March 7, along with their plinths.
Cllr Ann Crimmings, Cabinet Member for Environment, Leisure and Culture, said: “The Evan and James James Memorial is such an iconic and important part of Welsh heritage. It also adds to the beauty and attraction of Ynysangharad War Memorial Park, the home of Lido Ponty, the National Lido of Wales.
“I am delighted that this restoration work is now complete and the statues have returned home.
“The Evan and James James Memorial not only honours the father and son for their immense contribution to the culture of Wales, but it is also such a well-known and prominent landmark in our award-winning park.”
James James was born in Argoed in 1832 and his family moved to Pontypridd 15 years later, with his father Evan running a woollen mill in Mill Street. James, a talented harpist, earned a living performing in local public houses.
The memorial to the father-and-son was commissioned by Sir William Goscombe John, the sculptor who helped his wood carver father with the restoration work of Cardiff Castle.
James’ son Taliesin James (1856-1938), a lecturer at the Welsh College of Music and Drama, played the harp at the official unveiling ceremony on July 23, 1930. More than 1,000 people attended the ceremony, conducted by Lord Treowen, Sir Ivor Herbert.
The bilingual inscription on the memorial says: “Evan James and James James (1809-1878/1832-1902) father and son of Pontypridd who, inspired by a deep and tender love of their native land, united poetry and song and gave to Wales her national hymn Hen Wlad Fy Nhadau”
The memorial is mounted onto a pedestal of blue pennant stone sourced from the Graig yr Hesg Quarry, Pontypridd.
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