A pair of Tonypandy historians have launched the first comprehensive history of the Riots which occurred a century ago this week.
Former school teachers David Maddox and Gwyn Evans have finally published their extensive archive of unique images, never-before-seen government papers and interviews with the rioters themselves.
For over 40 years the lifelong friends have worked on their project and the book was published at Rhondda Heritage Park before a packed hall of supporters.
“The Tonypandy Riots 1910-1911” contains a remarkable collection of 250 photographic images and eye witness accounts and is being published to coincide with the centenary commemorations, organised by Rhondda Cynon Taf Council.
The publication will cast new light on several aspects of the Riots, as it re-examines the controversial decision by Home Secretary Winston Churchill to send in the troops, the role of the military in undermining the strike and the attitude of the community to the police.
It also examines what it was like to live during the ten month strike through the evocative memories of those who lived through the momentous years.
For the two lifelong friends, the entire project has been a labour of love which began way back in the mid1960s when they were both teachers at Tonypandy Grammar School.
Rhondda Cynon Taf’s Deputy Mayor Cllr Sylvia Jones officially opened the evening, which also welcomed Cllr Robert Bevan, the Cabinet Member for Culture, Recreation and Tourism and Rhondda Assembly Member Leighton Andrews.
Cllr Jones said, “I have known Gwyn Evans all of my life and know how much work both of these gentlemen have undertaken to produce such a magnificent history book.
“I’m sure this will be the most authoritative publication on the history of the Tonypandy Riots and I wish them well in their endeavours to make it a success.”
Professor Dai Smith, the professor of history at Swansea University and Chairman of the Arts Council of Wales also addressed the audience before David Maddox gave a short overview of the history of the Tonypandy Riots and the work involved in producing the book.
Copies of “The Tonypandy Riots 1910-1911” by David Maddox and Gwyn Evans are available, priced £15.00 plus postage and packing by emailing [email protected].
A book signing will also take place at Tonypandy Central Library on Wednesday 10th November at 6.30pm
