July 2026 meeting

[QuentinDeakin]

The society's meeting on July 20th, was a double follow-up session to Dr Tony Lyons' talk on the history of modern tourism in Wales and Professor Aldhouse-Green's talk on Welsh folklore. On the first topic they were delighted to welcome Leigh Tunnadine, who, with the assistance of her sister Paula, gave an excellent account of the history of her family home, Neptune Hall. The Hall, an iconic building in Tywyn's history, has a varied and exciting story to tell. It was bought by the sisters' grandfather in early 1950's as a developing holiday accommodation site. This enterprise is still continuing to flourish and expand. Leigh did the subject full justice, producing many interesting documents, antique maps, photographs and recently recovered artefacts, accompanied by a colourful and nostalgic powerpoint. Questions and a lively discussion followed. Leigh was warmly thanked for her inspiring presentation.

After the break there were three shorter talks on the subject of folklore by members, Freddie Collier and Quentin and Liz Deakin. Freddie retold myths of mountain giants, set in the context of the geology of Snowdonia (Eryri). He also referred to famous mountaineers who trained in Snowdonia , later going on to win fame as daring explorers of the world's highest peaks, themselves attaining mythical status. The talk was illustrated by a skilful and colourful powerpoint.

Quentin's talk 'Myth-making', focused on the ceremonies of the Gorsedd invented by Iolo Morgannwg (Edward Williams) in the early nineteenth century, illustrating that folklore is an ever-evolving process, nevertheless containing elements of historical truth. He also cited the case of George Borrow, who lent into his own myth of heroic walking feats, while doing something that Iolo didn't do, by seeking truth in authenticating living Welsh poets and describing contemporary conditions.