Local History of South Wales & Llanhilleth Miners' Institute: Six Bells near Abertillery, South Wales

Tuesday 9 April 2013

Six Bells near Abertillery, South Wales

When the Six Bells Pit closed in 1964, the area lost its purpose. With a strong community spirit and a little help, they have created a village to be proud of. Their first project was to revitalise a rather dreary tunnel under the railway. The history of the village, complete with farms, the pit and chapel was illustrated.

Gateway signs were also erected along with Pippin art in the tunnel under the roadway.

The Community Council erected a miners' memorial in the 1990's, but unfortunately, made of sandstone, it is absorbing groundwater and eroding badly.

Miners Memorial created 1990s (showing erosion)

The Ebbw Fach Trail passes this way on its way from Llanhilleth, via Brynmawr to Black Rock. The Trail uses the disused railway line to link points of historical interest and beauty spots. As well as cycling or walking the trail, the points can be accessed by car.

Guardian oversees the Six Bells valley, his arms outstretched in desperation. Sebastien Boyesen's intention was to create the impression of a survivor or rescuer from the disaster in 1964 when 45 men were killed from 48 who were down the pit at the time.

The original miners' memorial with Guardian in the distance, between the hills

Guardian measures 20mtrs in height, as tall as the Angel of the North.

Ty Ebbw Fach, once the Coach & Horses Inn, is open (except on Monday) for a welcome cup of tea and slice of cake. The Heritage Room harks back to the 1960s (the time of the biggest postwar mining disaster). The story of the village, the people and the disaster, is told through multi-media, photographs, and newspapers.