Arts group AWEN is aiming to document stories before they’re forgotten
THE history of Whitchurch will be commemorated with free historical walks and people of all ages are joining in to help create the routes.
The Walking Whitchurch Heritage project was launched at Whitchurch Hub on Wednesday, February 23.
Volunteers from arts group AWEN @ The Library gathered to share stories of the village’s history in one of the first large events at the Hub, which was remodelled during lockdown.
The meeting was the first of three that will happen this year with an end goal of producing a set of self-guided walks around the area, with QR codes that can be scanned to view pictures and listen to stories of Whitchurch’s past.
Sarah Duncan-Jones, a trustee of AWEN who organises the group’s events, said: “There are lots of people who are enthusiastic about local history, but there are also people who live here and don’t realise that they live in a historic part of Cardiff.
“We need to know our history so we can move forward into the future confidently.”
The project is funded by an £8,500 National Lottery Heritage Fund grant and run by volunteers. AWEN is the only group in Cardiff to have successfully been awarded the grant this year.
The idea for it started with AWEN’s 101 Things You (Probably) Didn’t Know About Whitchurch campaign, where snippets of Whitchurch history were shared on social media.
Marc Palmer, AWEN’s chair, said: “The 101 Things project generated so much excitement, and the opportunity has come to put some of those things into more of a ‘forever home.’
“There will be two or three walks that would take about 15 minutes each. The QR codes will take you to more information, which could be something to do with the war memorial or something to do with Gareth Bale!”
As the project expands, everyone in Whitchurch is being encouraged to lend a hand.
Nigel Lewis, who is overseeing the project, told guests at the event: “If you have an interest in the community or if you have any technology expertise, we could really, really use your help.
“Whether you are 16 and an expert in computers, or you are 116 and just enjoy life, come along!”
Wednesday’s event also showcased the work residents have done to document local history. Representatives from the Whitchurch Hospital Historical Society and St Mary’s Gardens were there, experts gave talks and a collection of library books were showcased.
Ceri Stennett, an author of books on Whitchurch’s military history, attended the event. He said: “Like all villages across the country, our men were called up to serve. They had no previous soldiering experience, but they did their best for King and country.
“So many didn’t come back and after the First World War, the memorial was erected. Sadly, it had to be used again for the Second World War. The memorial doesn’t just commemorate Whitchurch, but also Llandaff North, Rhiwbina, Tongwynlais and Birchgrove.”
Julie Morgan MS, who has been involved with AWEN since the group was founded in 2016, also attended and spoke with guests.
AWEN is hoping to hold two more events this year before the walks are launched. Members will also travel around Whitchurch with a mobile recording booth to collect people’s stories of the village.
To get involved, follow the AWEN Facebook page or Instagram account.
