An interactive guided walk around Cathays Cemetery on June 11 will give people the chance to learn more about some of the colourful characters buried in the cemetery.
The walk is the result of a partnership between the City of Cardiff Council and the University of South Wales whose students will don authentic costumes to play the parts of notorious characters from Cardiff’s past.
Residents of the cemetery include the famous pugilist James “Jim” Driscoll commonly known as Peerless Jim, who learned his trade in the boxing ring and used it to fight his way out of poverty; and the 14 year old Louisa Maud Evans who was killed in a freak accident after ascending in a balloon as part of the 1896 Cardiff Exhibition.
Cabinet Member for Environment, Cllr Bob Derbyshire, said: “This is a great opportunity to experience history on a personal level and an excellent example of the benefits of partnership working. The walk combines the remarkable knowledge of the Bereavement Services team with the talents of students at the University of South Wales to create a unique opportunity for the residents of Cardiff.”
At its opening in 1859 the Cardiff Times predicted the cemetery “would form the principal walk of the inhabitants of Cardiff.” Today, Cathays Cemetery is one of the largest Victorian cemeteries in the Britain, covering some 110 acres and provides a fascinating walk for residents and visitors alike.
Tickets for the walk are priced at £5 and must be bought in advance from Bereavement Services at Thornhill Cemetery.
For more details contact Bereavement Services (029) 2054 4820 or [email protected]
