talking point - Rhondda Cynon Taf

WILLIAM HAGGAR 1851-1925
William Haggar spent many years travelling before settling in Aberdare, where he married the daughter of the
owner of the Bird-in-Hand pub.
During the late 1890s, when film-making was in its infancy, Haggar operated a travelling cinema showing films
made by others, but then decided to make films for himself.
Between 1901 and 1908 Haggar made over forty feature films, choosing exciting stories for his subjects. His two most influential
films seem to have been A Desperate Poaching Affray and A Life of Charles Peace, where innovations included the use of
panning shots and stunts. Both films were shown widely abroad, where they influenced the development of the Keystone Cops.
The History of Charles Peace can be seen at the Cynon Valley Museum and
Gallery, and there is a plaque to Haggar’s memory on the
wall of the Market Hall.
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In a hidden side valley above the town lies Dare Valley Country Park.
Accessed by following the A4233 for Maerdy out of Victoria Square and
turning right where the houses end, the Park offers a peaceful retreat
with Visitor Centre, restaurant and accommodation, also the
Greenmeadow Riding Stables which, in addition to cross-country treking,
offers courses for children and riding for the disabled. The Park is also
the starting points for some exhilarating walks, including the strenuous
ascent of Craig y Bwllfa, giving long-distance hikers access to the Coed
Morgannwg Way stretching all the way to Port Talbot, thirty miles distant.
Continue on the A4233, described in tour 2, and from there continue on
to Porth and finally our starting point Pontypridd.