The Geoff Charles Collection is a vast archive of photographs housed at the National Library of Wales. The collection includes over 120,000 images taken by Charles, a Welsh photographer who was active from the 1930s to the 1990s. The images in the collection cover a wide range of subjects, including daily life in rural Wales, industry, agriculture, and sport.
One photograph from the collection, taken on January 29, 1954, shows two shorthand typists working on a fireguard during a woodwork night class in Llanfyllin. The image captures a moment in time, illustrating the importance of night classes in providing education opportunities to individuals who were not able to attend during the day.
The image is a film negative and has a reference number of gch05553. It is part of the larger Geoff Charles Collection, which is available for viewing at the National Library of Wales. The collection provides a unique glimpse into Welsh life over the years and allows viewers to gain a deeper understanding of the country’s culture and history.
Geoff Charles was born in 1909 and grew up in the village of Bryn Saith Marchog in Denbighshire. He became interested in photography at an early age and went on to work as a freelance photographer for newspapers and magazines. In 1942, he joined the staff of The Wrexham Star, where he worked for over twenty years.
During his career, Charles captured images of many famous Welsh individuals, including the poet Dylan Thomas and the politician Aneurin Bevan. He also documented key moments in Welsh history, such as the opening of the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct and the flooding of Tryweryn valley.
In his later years, Charles continued to take photographs and was recognized for his contributions to Welsh culture. He was awarded an honorary degree from the University of Wales and was named a member of the Gorsedd of Bards, an organization that promotes Welsh language and culture. Charles passed away in 2002, leaving behind a legacy of iconic images that continue to inspire and inform us today.
The photograph of the woodwork night class in Llanfyllin is just one example of the powerful images captured by Geoff Charles. It shows the dedication of individuals seeking to improve their education and skills, even after a long day of work. The image is a testament to the impact of night classes on Welsh society, providing opportunities for learning and personal growth that might not have otherwise been available.
Today, the Geoff Charles Collection is a valuable resource for researchers, historians, and anyone interested in Welsh culture and history. The images provide a window into the past, illustrating the daily lives and struggles of ordinary people, as well as the pivotal moments that helped shape modern Wales. The collection is a gem of Welsh heritage, preserving and celebrating the rich history and culture of this unique country.
Posted by LlGC ~ NLW on 2011-01-12 15:01:47
