Whitchurch and Llandaff Living Issue 68

Taff's Well
Taff's Well has a rich history, dating back centuries. Often referred
to as the Gateway to the Valleys, the village has played a significant
role in the industrial, cultural, and social fabric of south Wales
The history of Taff's Well begins
in ancient times when the
land was inhabited by early
Welsh tribes. The name 'Taff's Well'
itself has an interesting origin,
likely stemming from the Welsh
'Ffynnon Taf,' meaning 'Taf Spring.'
This spring, which is still active
today, is known for its mineral-rich
and slightly warm waters, believed
to have healing properties. The
therapeutic waters made Taff's Well
an attraction even in ancient times.
Evidence of prehistoric activity in
the area can be found in the form
of stone circles, standing stones,
and burial mounds that dot the
surrounding landscape, suggesting
that this region has been inhabited
for thousands of years.
Taff's Well's significance as a
location of historical interest
continued into the medieval period.
The thermal spring gained notoriety
for its perceived healing properties,
drawing visitors from far and wide.
Pilgrims and travellers would stop
at Taff's Well to bathe in or drink
18
from the spring, believing it could
cure various ailments. The well's
reputation as a healing source
contributed to the village's growth
and development.
During this time, Taff's Well was
also a prominent stop on the
pilgrimage route to St. David's in
West Wales, further increasing
its importance as a cultural and
spiritual centre.
The most significant
transformation in the history of Taff's
Well occurred during the Industrial
Revolution. As Wales became a hub
for coal mining and heavy industry,
Taff's Well's strategic location along
the Taff River made it an ideal spot
for expansion.
Coal mining became the driving
force behind the village's growth.
Its proximity to rich coal reserves in
the south Wales valleys led to the
establishment of coal mines in the
area. Taff's Well became a centre
for coal extraction and distribution,
with many local residents finding
employment in the mines. This shift
from a predominantly agricultural
village to an industrial centre had
a profound impact on the village's
population and economy.
With the expansion of the mining
industry came a demand for new
infrastructure. Taff's Well saw the
development of railways, roads,
and bridges, making it a crucial
transportation hub for the coal
industry. This transformation
of the village's landscape was
accompanied by the construction
of worker housing, schools, and
churches to accommodate the
growing population.
A slant mine was opened in Taff's
Well around 1905 by the Rockwood
Colliery Company. By 1908, it was
employing 58 men and by 1918,
was employing 180. A sense of
community developed among the
mining families, and many aspects
of daily life revolved around the
pits. Social organisations, clubs, and
societies were formed to support
the needs of the mining community.
The village's cultural life was