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# Aber Valley Heritage Group

## Sitemaps

- [XML Sitemap](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website.

## Posts

- [Bank Holiday Closure](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/bank-holiday-closure/) - Aber Valley Heritage Museum will be closed on Saturday 29th August 2026 enable our volunteers to have a well-earned break and enjoy their Bank Holiday weekend. The museum will re-open on Tuesday 1st September. We thank you for understanding. Please note the Welsh National and Universal Mining Disaster Memorial Garden will still be open on
- [Lights, camera… Aber Valley Heritage Group!](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/lights-camera-aber-valley-heritage-group/) - On Saturday 18th July, we were delighted to have a designated filming slot for Antiques Roadshow at Caerphilly Castle. For the programme, we took along the original hooter that sounded at 8:10am on 14th October 1913, following the tragic mining disaster at the Universal Colliery, Senghenydd which remains the worst mining accident in British history.
- [St Cenydd Visit](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/st-cenydd-visit/) - We were delighted to welcome a group of pupils from St Cenydd Community School to Aber Valley Heritage. A group of 12 pupils and 5 teachers made the walk to Senghenydd, where they spent a good hour exploring the museum and learning more about our local heritage. Afterwards, they headed up to the garden for
- [Polite Notice](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/polite-notice/) - We understand how meaningful it is to have a peaceful, special place to remember loved ones, and we’re truly honoured that people feel a connection to our memorial garden. We kindly ask that, before any ashes are laid within the garden, permission is sought from the Aber Valley Heritage Group and its trustees. This is
- [Thank you volunteers](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/thank-you-volunteers/) - A huge thank you to everyone who volunteered today at the Heritage Garden. We are incredibly grateful for the hard work, time and community spirit shown by: Llywelyn & Matthew from Evergreen Maintenance, Lia, Emily and Arianwen Garmon, Fflur and Pabo, Jayne and Mathew Bevan, and Garry Lee. A special thank you also goes to
- [Garden statue re-stained](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/garden-statue-re-stained/) - A huge thank you to Dan The Render Mason for beautifully re-staining the statue in our Memorial Garden. We’re incredibly grateful for your hard work and generosity in helping keep our Memorial Garden looking its very best. Thank you again, Dan!
- [Thank you to Aber Valley Men's Shed](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/thank-you-to-aber-valley-mens-shed/) - A huge thank you to the Men’s Shed for once again coming to the rescue and supporting the community. Not only did they paint the fence, clean the stonework, and clear weeds and other debris from around the Windsor Colliery Memorial, they also kindly supplied us with two compost bins for our garden. Amazing work
- [Remembering those lost in 1901 disaster](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/remembering-those-lost-in-1901-disaster/) - Today we at the Aber Valley Heritage remember the men and boys lost in the 1901 Universal Colliery disaster in Senghenydd, one of the many tragedies that shaped the history of the South Wales coalfield. Their lives, courage, and sacrifice remain an important part of the heritage of the Aber Valley and our mining communities.
- [Bank Holiday Closures](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/bank-holiday-closures-3/) - Aber Valley Heritage Museum will be closed this Saturday, 2nd May, and also Saturday 23rd May to enable our volunteers to have a well-earned break and enjoy their Bank Holiday weekends. The museum will re-open on the Tuesday following Bank Holiday Monday. We thank you for understanding.
- [An afternoon of celebration and remembrance](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/an-afternoon-of-celebration-and-remembrance/) - What a truly special afternoon at Aber Valley Heritage on Monday. We began by coming together to commemorate the newly laid tiles, honouring those who worked during the lifetime of the mine, before moving into a powerful and inspiring celebration of strong women past and present. From the remarkable story of Wendy a true pioneer
- [Easter Closure 2026](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/easter-closure-2026/) - Aber Valley Heritage Museum will be closed on Friday 3rd April, Saturday 4th April and Monday 6th April for Easter weekend. It will re-open on Tuesday 7th April 11:00am - 2:00pm and we look forward to welcoming you then. Have a lovely bank holiday weekend.
- [Charity Calendars now half price](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/charity-calendars-now-half-price/) - Aber Valley Heritage Group's 2026 Charity Calendar has now been reduced to £4.00 and is available in limited quantities from Aber Valley Heritage Museum. All proceeds from sales will go to Aber Valley Heritage Group Charity registration no: 1161759.
- [Museum Opening Times](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/museum-opening-times/) - Aber Valley Heritage Museum will be open 11:00am - 2:00pm Tuesday - Saturday from Tuesday 3rd March. We kindly do ask that groups still contact us in advance to arrange their visit to make sure we have enough volunteers on hand. Group bookings and school visits can be booked by emailing bookings@abervalleyheritage.co.uk
- [Museum Temporary Closures](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/museum-temporary-closures/) - The museum will be closed Tuesday 3rd February 2026 & Friday 6th February 2026 to allow our volunteers to attend the funerals of two very dear friends of Aber Valley Heritage. Thank you for understanding Bookings are available on other days:Tuesday - Saturday 11:00am - 2:00pm by emailing bookings@abervalleyheritage.co.ukPlease give as much notice as possible
- [Senghenydd - A Brave Community by J Basil Phillips](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/senghenydd-a-brave-community-by-j-basil-phillips/) - Senghenydd - A brave Community by J Basil Phillips. Reprinted version published by Aber Valley Heritage Group with kind permission from Huw Phillips.Priced at £15 each, (or £20 including P&P) now available from Aber Valley Heritage Museum!If you wish to order, and have the book mailed to you, please email senghen.heritage@btconnect.com
- [Christmas Closedown](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/christmas-closedown-4/) - Senghenydd Community Centre will close for the Christmas break on Saturday 20th December 2025 and re-open on Saturday 3rd January 2026. Please note Aber Valley Heritage Museum will be taking bookings for visits Tuesday – Saturday from 6th January 2026 onwards. The memorial garden will only close on Christmas Day (weather permitting).
- [Cofio Senghenydd Merch - Last orders for Christmas](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/cofio-senghenydd-merch-last-orders-for-christmas/) - The last order date to ensure you receive your gifts in time for Christmas is Friday 28th November. Choose from postage option or free collection from TSS Print & Embroidery (Caerphilly or Blackwood Stores) tssprintandembroidery.com/product-category/cofio-senghenydd
- [AGM 2025](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/agm-2025/) - NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT THE ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING OF THE ABER VALLEY HERITAGE GROUP WILL BE HELD AT SENGHENYDD COMMUNITY CENTREMonday 24th November 2025 at 4:30pmCandidates for election as Foundation or Elected Trustees should be proposed in writing and forwarded to the Secretary of the Aber Valley Heritage Group not later than fourteen days
- [Watch our Annual Memorial Service 2025](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/watch-our-annual-memorial-service-2025/) - If you were unable to attend our Annual Memorial Service on 14th October this year, or missed our livestream, then you can watch what happened here. Many thanks to everyone who supported us on the day, and thankfully the weather was kind to us this year.
- [Charity Calendar 2026 is on sale now](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/charity-calendar-2026-is-on-sale-now/) - We are pleased to announce that our Charity Calendar for 2026 is now on sale! The Cofio Senghenydd & Abertridwr calendar takes you on a journey through the Aber Valley from the past through old photographs. Priced at £8.00 each (cash only) it is available from Aber Valley Heritage Museum, Cavanna’s, Paul Atwood & sons and The
- [Garden Opening Hours for Autumn/Winter](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/garden-opening-hours-for-autumn-winter/) - The Welsh National & Universal Mining Disaster Memorial Garden, Senghenydd has adjusted it's opening times for Autumn/Winter. Until 28th February 2026, the Garden will now open 9:00am until 4:00pm daily (closed Christmas Day).
- [Aber Valley Heritage Museum - Autumn/Winter visiting arrangements](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/aber-valley-heritage-museum-autumn-winter-visiting-arrangements/) - From 1st November 2025 until 1st March 2026, Aber Valley Heritage Museum will accept visitors on an appointment only basis. Tuesday – Saturday 11:00am – 2:00pm.To book your visit, please e-mail bookings@abervalleyheritage.co.uk.
- [Memorial Service 2025](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/memorial-service-2025/) - This year's memorial service will take place on Tuesday 14th October 2025 at 10:00am. All welcome. Floral tributes may be laid. Please note that we will be live streaming again, so if you do not wish to appear in this, please do not attend.
- [August Bank Holiday](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/august-bank-holiday-2/) - Just a little reminder that the Aber Valley Heritage Museum will be closed this Saturday to allow our volunteers to have a well-earned break and to enjoy their bank holiday weekend. We hope everyone enjoys their weekend and we look forward to seeing you all visit our museum soon.
- [Sponsor our 2026 Calendar](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/sponsor-our-2026-calendar/) - Calling All Local Businesses: We’re preparing our much-loved Aber Valley Heritage Calendar 2026, and we want your business to be part of it! Sponsor the calendar for just £30. Get your business name and logo featured. Show your support for our local history and community. Gain great visibility across the valley. Your support helps us
- [Summer Opening Hours](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/summer-opening-hours/) - Just to let you know that until 30th September, the memorial garden will stay now stay open until 6:00pm.
- [Volunteers Wanted](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/volunteers-wanted-2/) - Do you have green fingers & love working outdoors? or Do you have an interest in local history & a passion for ensuring our local heritage is not lost? Aber Valley Heritage Group is looking for willing volunteers who can help us at The Welsh National and Universal Mining Memorial Garden, Senghenydd and the Aber
- [Bank Holiday Closures](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/bank-holiday-closures-2/) - A little reminder that the Aber Valley Heritage Museum doesn't open the Saturdays before Bank Holiday Mondays, so will be closed this Saturday, 3rd May and Saturday 24th May.
- [Easter Closure Notice](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/easter-closure-notice/) - Easter Closure 2025Senghenydd Community Centre will be closed:Friday 18th April & Monday 21st April Aber Valley Heritage Museum will be closed:Friday 18th April, Saturday 19th April & Monday 21st April The Committees wish everyone a safe & happy holiday weekend
- [Cofio 1901. Remember 1901.](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/cofio-1901-remember-1901/) - On this date in 1901, the first disaster took place at the Universal Colliery, Senghenydd. Mercifully it happened at the end of the night shift on 24th May 1901, when many of the miners had already been brought to the surface. There were 82 left underground at the time of the explosion and only one
- [Cofio Senghenydd Merchandise now available](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/cofio-senghenydd-merchandise-now-available/) - You can now order Cofio Senghenydd Merchandise from our dedicated page on TSS Print & Embroidery. All items are made to order. Approximate turnaround time 2 weeks. Home delivery (for a fee) is available or free instore pickup from TSS Print & Embroidery in Caerphilly or Blackwood. If you wish to collect fromAber Valley Heritage
- [Museum Closed for 2 days](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/museum-closed-for-2-days/) - The Aber Valley Heritage Museum is closed for 2 days on 29th & 30th October 2024 due to essential electrical maintenance at the Senghenydd Community Centre. It will re-open on Thursday 31st October 2024. We are sorry for any inconvenience caused. Please note: From 1st November for the winter months, visits to the museum will
- [Cofio Senghenydd - Annual Memorial Service](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/cofio-senghenydd-annual-memorial-service/) - Our annual Memorial Service to remember those who lost their lives in the Universal Colliery disasters of 1901 & 1913 takes place on Monday 14th October 2024 at Welsh National & Universal Mining Disaster Memorial Garden Senghenydd CF83 4GY at 10:00am. All are welcome. Floral tributes may be laid. PLEASE NOTE: Once again this year
- [New Monolithic Structure at National Mining Disaster Memorial Garden of Wales](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/new-monolithic-structure-at-national-mining-disaster-memorial-garden-of-wales/) - If you have visited the National Mining Disaster Memorial Garden of Wales recently, you may have noticed a new addition – a monolithic structure featuring a depiction of the famous girl & baby photograph which was taken during the 1913 Universal Colliery Disaster. Due to the unfortunate deterioration of the wooden girl & baby statue
- [Family of King Samuel Humphries visit the museum](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/family-of-king-samuel-humphries-visit-the-museum/) - We recently had a visit to the Heritage Museum and Garden from John Humphries together with his family. John was the youngest son of King Samuel Humphries who together with his father and three brothers worked at the Universal Colliery. The 1913 disaster claimed the lives of King’s father, also called King Samuel Humphries, his
- [Cardiff City Player visits our Memorial Garden](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/cardiff-city-player-visits-our-memorial-garden/) - A member of Cardiff City's 1st Team Squad, Nat Phillips recently visited the National Mining Disaster Memorial Garden of Wales. This was documented and featured both inside and on the front cover of last Friday's Cardiff City Programme for their match against Sunderland AFC. Thank you Nat & Cardiff City!
- [Easter Closure 2024](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/easter-closure-2024/) - Aber Valley Heritage Museum will be closed Good Friday, Easter Saturday, Easter Sunday & Easter Monday. It will re-open on Tuesday 2nd April.
- [Site dedicated to thousands of lives lost officially recognised as the National Mining Disaster Memorial Garden of Wales](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/site-dedicated-to-thousands-of-lives-lost-officially-recognised-as-the-national-mining-disaster-memorial-garden-of-wales/) - A memorial garden in Senghenydd, which commemorates those who died in the worst disaster in the history of British mining, has been given the “recognition it deserves” and formally acknowledged by the Welsh Government as the National Mining Disaster Memorial Garden of Wales. The village’s garden of remembrance was officially opened on the 100th anniversary
- [Family of Wendy Slade attend Wales v Iceland Match](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/family-of-wendy-slade-attend-wales-v-iceland-match/) - Last October the family of the late Wendy Slade donated her cap to Aber Valley Heritage Museum at a ceremony in the Senghenydd Community Centre.Following this, Owain Harries from the Football Association of Wales invited the family to the Wales v Iceland match on 1st December at Cardiff City Stadium.Here’s a few pictures of a
- [Christmas Closedown](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/christmas-closedown-3/) - Senghenydd Community Centre is now closed for the holidays and will re-open on Thursday 4th January 2024. Aber Valley Heritage Museum will also be closed for bookings during this time. The Committees of both would like to thank you all for your support this year and wish you a Merry Christmas & Happy New Year.
- [AGM 2023](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/agm-2023/) - This year's AGM will take place on Monday 27th November 2023 at 2:00pm at Senghenydd Community Centre.
- [Museum Appointment Only during winter months](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/aber-valley-heritage-museum-appointment-only-during-winter-months-2/) - Visits to Aber Valley Heritage Museum will be appointment only between 1st November 2023 – 1st March 2024. To book your visit, please email bookings@abervalleyheritage.co.uk Opening times Tuesday to Saturday 11:00am – 2:00pm (excluding the Saturdays preceding Bank Holidays)Last entry 15 minutes before close. Admission is free of charge to everyone. During inclement weather, please call
- [Wendy Slade's Cap](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/wendy-slades-cap/) - Wendy Joyce Slade was born in Stanley Street, Senghenydd on the 26th May 1958 and was a pupil of Groeswen School (now St Cenydd). In 1978-79 Wendy had the privilege of playing for Wales on a national level. Wendy actually received 2 caps, but one is with her family in Australia. Research shows the cap
- [Temporary Closure](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/temporary-closure/) - Aber Valley Heritage Museum will be closed on Wednesday 26th April due to a bereavement. It will re-open on Thursday 27th April.Thank you for your understanding.
- [Remembering Senghenydd](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/remembering-senghenydd/) - A memorial service for those who lost their lives in the Universal Colliery disasters of 1901 & 1913. This year's memorial service is on the 110th anniversary of the 1913 Disaster. You are welcome to join us on Friday 13th October 2023 at 10:00am at Welsh National Universal Mining Memorial Garden, Senghenydd. Floral tributes may
- [Thank You CADW!](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/thank-you-cadw/) - Most of you would know that the Welsh National and Universal Mining Memorial Garden has been closed for the last month. Great news. It is now open! The closure was because of urgent repairs needed to parts of the stonework. Aber Valley Heritage Group would like to thank the team from CADW based at Caerphilly Castle, who
- [Garden to re-open](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/garden-to-re-open/) - We are pleased to announce that the Memorial Garden will reopen on Tuesday 29th August following much needed repair work. Thank you for your patience.
- [August Bank Holiday](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/august-bank-holiday/) - The museum will be closed this Saturday 26th August 2023 due to Bank Holiday weekend. It will re-open on Tuesday 29th August 2023. The Welsh National & Universal Mining Memorial Garden also remains closed at this time due to essential repair work being carried out. We hope you have a lovely Bank Holiday weekend and
- [Temporary Closure of Memorial Garden](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/temporary-closure-of-memorial-garden/) - The Welsh National and Universal Mining Memorial Garden will be closed for 3 weeks from Wednesday 9th August 2023 due to repair work being carried out. We apologise for any inconvenience.
- [Group visits Nantgarw Collections Centre](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/group-visits-nantgarw-collections-centre/) - Members of Aber Valley Heritage Group visited the Museum Storage Facilities at Nantgarw on Monday. Our guide was Ceri Thompson, Curator of The Big Pit! The first item he was saving for us was brought out from their safe is the recently repaired and conserved horses hoof. The horse was called “Kildare” and was killed
- [Visitors from all over the world](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/visitors-from-all-over-the-world/) - Our recent visitors, the Amaya family from Washington, USA tracing relatives involved in the Disasters. Successfully found! Other visitors this month were from New Zealand, France, Mexico as well as major towns and cities Also pupils from St Cenydd School. Hope more of our locals can find the time to visit!
- [Bank Holiday Closures](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/bank-holiday-closures/) - Aber Valley Heritage Museum Bank Holiday ClosuresThe museum will be closed on:Saturday 29th April 2023Saturday 6th May 2023Saturday 27th May 2023 Usual Opening times are:Tuesday - Saturday 11:00am - 2:00pm(except Saturdays before Bank Holidays)You no longer need to book in advance unless you are a large group & we may need an extra pair of
- [Closures due to snow](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/closures-due-to-snow/) - Due to the snow overnight, and continuing into today, the Aber Valley Heritage Museum and the Memorial Garden will be closed today, Wednesday 8th March 2023. Sorry for any inconvenience caused.
- [Windsor Memorial Tiles - Applications closing soon](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/windsor-memorial-tiles/) - Time is running out for people who worked at the Windsor Colliery in Abertridwr to have their name on a tile surrounding the new Windsor Memorial, as applications close on 30th March 2023. If you worked at Windsor Colliery in Abertridwr, and would like to have your name added to a tile which will be
- [Christmas Closedown & Garden opening times](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/christmas-closedown-2/) - Senghenydd Community Centre will close for the Christmas break on Thursday 22nd December 2022 and re-open on Thursday 5th January 2023. The Committee would like to thank everyone for their support this year. We wish you a safe and happy holidays & look forward to seeing you in 2023. Please note the Aber Valley Heritage
- [Aber Valley Heritage Museum Appointment Only during winter months](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/aber-valley-heritage-museum-appointment-only-during-winter-months/) - 1st November - 1st March, Aber Valley Heritage Museum will be appointment only Slots availabe 11:00am - 2:00pm Tuesday - Saturday To check availability & book your visit email: bookings@abervalleyheritage.co.uk
- [AGM Notice](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/agm-notice/) - NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT THE ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING OF THE ABER VALLEY HERITAGE GROUP WILL BE HELD AT SENGHENYDD COMMUNITY CENTRE on Monday 7th November 2022 at 2:00pm Candidates for election as Foundation or Elected Trustees should be proposed in writing and forwarded to the Secretary of the Aber Valley Heritage Group not later
- [Appointment Only](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/appointment-only/) - Aber Valley Heritage Museum will be appointment only Tuesday 18th October - Saturday 22nd October. To check availability & book your visit email: bookings@abervalleyheritage.co.uk
- [Remembering Senghenydd - Memorial Service](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/remembering-senghenydd-memorial-service/) - A memorial service for the miners that lost their lives in Universal Colliery disasters of 1901 and 1913 will take place on Friday 14th October 2022. It will take place at the National Mining Memorial at 10:00am.
- [Heritage Group volunteers on ITV news](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/heritage-group-volunteers-on-itv-news/) - Yesterday, 3 of our volunteers, Gill Jones, Pat Bull & Carol Bowen appeared on ITV news where Gill talked about the new Prince of Wales, and a visit by the previous Prince of Wales. You can watch the snippet below:
- [Volunteers Wanted](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/volunteers-wanted/) - We are looking for volunteers to please help with weeding the Memorial Garden in Senghenydd at the following times: 10:00am Sunday 25th September 10:00am Sunday 9th October. We would love it if you could spare a couple of hours to please come along and help us. Welsh National & Universal Mining Memorial Garden, Commercial Street,
- [Queen Elizabeth II  1926 - 2022](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/queen-elizabeth-ii-1926-2022/) - It is with regret, that due to the death of the Queen, the Aber Valley Heritage Museum will be closed tomorrow, Friday 9th September, and Saturday 10th September as a mark of respect. The museum will re-open on Tuesday 13th September 2022.
- [Windsor Memorial Re-Dedication Ceremony](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/windsor-memorial-re-dedication-ceremony/) - The Windsor Memorial Re-Dedication Ceremony will take place on Tuesday 20th September 2022 at 1:30pm. This will take place at the new memorial which is located behind the Windsor Hotel. The original Memorial was built in 2006 but due to serious deterioration had to be replaced. We hope that this new Memorial, funded by the
- [Service for William Harris to take place on 24th May 2022](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/service-for-william-harris-to-take-place-on-24th-may-2022/) - On 24th May 2022, on the 121st anniversary of the 1901 Universal Colliery Disaster, the Aber Valley Heritage Group will be holding a graveside service in honour of William Harris, and to remember those who lost their lives on that tragic day.William Harris was the sole survivor of the Universal Colliery Disaster in 1901. William's
- [Closure due to weather warning](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/closure-due-to-weather-warning/) - Due to the weather warning for tomorrow and to help us keep our volunteers and visitors safe, both the Welsh National Mining Memorial Garden and the Aber Valley Heritage Museum will both be closed on Friday 18th February.
- [Christmas Closedown](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/christmas-closedown/) - The Aber Valley Heritage Museum will close for the Christmas break on Thursday 23rd December 2021 and re-open on Tuesday 11th January 2022. To book your visit during days we are open please email bookings@abervalleyheritage.co.ukThe Welsh National and Universal Memorial Garden will remain open over the holidays, except for Christmas Day where the garden will
- [Storms forecast](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/storms-forecast/) - Due to the forthcoming storm on Tuesday 7th and Wednesday 8th December 2021 and with the safety of our volunteers and public in mind our Museum and Memorial Garden will be closed. We will hopefully reopen from Thursday 9th December 2021. Thank you for understanding.
- [Heritage Committee AGM](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/heritage-committee-agm/) - This year's AGM will take place on Monday 15th November 2021 at Senghenydd Community Centre at 4:30pm.
- [Annual Memorial Service returned](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/annual-memorial-service-returned/) - Aber Valley Heritage Group would like to thank everyone who joined them for their annual Memorial Service on 14th October 2021. Last year the service could not take place as usual due to lockdown restrictions, and was only attended by the committee members and live streamed on Facebook. They are thankful that this year they
- [Annual Memorial Service](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/annual-memorial-service/) - Aber Valley Heritage Group will be holding their annual memorial service for the Universal Colliery disasters on 14th October 2021 at 10:00am at the Welsh National Universal Mining Memorial & Garden, Senghenydd CF83 4GY
- [New display cases and dummies in the museum](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/new-display-cases-and-dummies-in-the-museum/) - There have been a number of changes to the museum since we were last open. Not only do we have the new model of the Universal Colliery which we shared with you last month, but we also have 2 new display cases & 2 new dummies that now display our recently conserved gowns!The display cases
- [New model at the museum](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/new-model-at-the-museum/) - Since Aber Valley Heritage Museum was last open in 2020, we have some gained some new artifacts, including this incredible model of the Universal Colliery donated to us by Paul Anzani. Paul made this during lockdown using old photographs as his source and inspiration. Book your visit to come and see it by emailing bookings@abervalleyheritage.co.uk
- [Today marks 120 years since 1901 disaster](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/today-marks-120-years-since-1901-disaster/) - On 24th May 1901, 81 men lost their lives in a mining disaster at the Universal Colliery, Senghenydd. They will never be forgotten.
- [Aber Valley Heritage Museum to re-open](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/aber-valley-heritage-museum-to-re-open/) - Aber Valley Heritage Museum will re-open on Tuesday 8th June. Since re-opening after lockdown we are now governed by strict covid-safe measures. We currently only accept visitors on an appointment only basis. All members of the party must belong to the same extended household. The Museum will open weekly Tuesday - Saturday (except Saturdays preceding
- [Welsh National Mining Memorial and Universal Colliery Memorial Garden to re-open](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/welsh-national-mining-memorial-and-universal-colliery-memorial-garden-to-re-open/) - Good news! The Welsh National Mining Memorial and Universal Colliery Memorial Garden will be re-opening daily from Good Friday (this Friday, 2nd April 2021) onwards. There is a foot-operated hand sanitizer post available for use when visiting, and please remain socially distanced while in the garden. The Aber Valley Heritage Museum remains closed at this
- [Annual General Meeting](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/annual-general-meeting/) - NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT A VIRTUAL ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING OF ABER VALLEY HERITAGE GROUP WILL BE HELD ONLINE ON THURSDAY 28TH JANUARY 2021 AT 11:00AM. 3 trustee vacancies are available. If you are 18+ and wish to apply for a vacancy, please submit your application in writing to senghen.heritage@btconnect.com by 21st January 2021. If
- [Latest Opening information](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/latest-opening-information/) - Visits to Aber Valley Heritage Museum have been available on an appointment only basis Tuesday - Saturday since Lockdown/Firebreak finished. We learnt during the Welsh Government press conference yesterday that after 6:00pm, this Friday 4th December we will have to shut our doors once again, along with other entertainment and attractions businesses. This is to
- [Memorial Garden Temporarily Closed](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/memorial-garden-temporarily-closed/) - We are sorry to have to inform you that alongside the Aber Valley Heritage Museum, the Welsh National Mining Memorial and Universal Colliery Memorial Garden in Senghenydd has now closed its gates due to Welsh Government COVID-19 restrictions.We will let you know as soon as we’re allowed to re-open. Stay Safe everyone!
- [Fishlock's Wales](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/fishlocks-wales/) - Have you seen this episode of Fishlock's Wales from a few years ago that looks at the Universal Colliery disasters?
- [Donate using Amazon Smile](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/donate-using-amazon-smile/) - You can now donate to Aber Valley Heritage Group every time you shop on Amazon! Please visit smile.amazon.co.uk to select Aber Valley Heritage Group as your chosen charity. Then each time you shop, Amazon will donate 0.5% of your purchase price to us. It doesn't cost you anything more, you just have to remember to
- [Senghenydd 1913 Mining Disaster 100th Anniversary Speech](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/senghenydd-1913-mining-disaster-100th-anniversary-speech/) - These words are from the speech Roy Noble OBE, Patron on Aber Valley Heritage Group, made at the unveiling of the memorial at Senghenydd on the 14th October 2013 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the 1913 Universal Colliery disaster, and the images include archive material from the disaster.
- ["Firebreak" Lockdown](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/firebreak-lockdown/) - The Committee would like to let everyone know that after yesterday's announcement about Wales going into "Firebreak" lockdown on Friday 23rd October at 6:00pm, the Welsh National and Universal Memorial and Garden will be closing for the duration of this lockdown. It will re-open on Monday 9th November 2020 and we look forward to welcoming
- [Senghenydd Remembered - Memorial Service 14th October 2020 Facebook Live](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/senghenydd-remembered-memorial-service-14th-october-2020-facebook-live/) - This year we were unable to hold our usual annual memorial service to remember the men and boys who lost their lives in the Universal Colliery disasters of 1901 & 1913. Due to the worldwide pandemic we adjusted this to a way in which our committee could stay safe, and stick to social distancing rules
- [Senghenydd Remembered - Facebook Live memorial service](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/senghenydd-remembered-facebook-live-memorial-service/) - This year due to COVID-19 restrictions we will be unable to invite members of the public to our memorial service for the Universal Colliery disasters. The committee alone will hold this and invite YOU to join us on our first ever Facebook live and remember those lost in the tragedies of 1901 & 1913.Join us
- [Aber Valley Heritage Museum & National Mining Memorial Garden temporarily closed](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/aber-valley-heritage-museum-temporarily-closed/) - Due to the ongoing situation caused by the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, Aber Valley Heritage Group has decided that in the interest of health and safety of both volunteers and visitors that the museum will temporarily close on 18th March 2020 for the foreseeable future. The National Mining Memorial Garden will close to the public on
- [Letters from World War 1](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/letters-from-world-war-1/) - Aber Valley Heritage has recently obtained letters written by William Bate who was serving in France and had lived at 23 Caerphilly Road, Senghenydd to his best friend Bert Baldwin, 7 Ilan Road, Abertridwr. Bert's family kindly let us copy them. We then, for ease of reference we also typed up each letter for visitors
- [Final week for Windsor Memorial Tile Sponsorship](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/final-week-for-windsor-memorial-tile-sponsorship/) - If anyone who worked at the Windsor Colliery (or their families) would like to pay £100 to have their name inserted on the bottom tile of the new memorial, you have until next Friday 24th October to submit payment. This is the final deadline as the tiles are in the process of being made. Any
- [Last man in the Universal Colliery](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/last-man-in-the-universal-colliery/) - Heritage was recently contacted by a gentleman who explained that he was the last man in the Universal Colliery in Senghenydd. Intrigued by this message we immediately contacted him – it was Mr Phil Morgan who told us a fascinating story. As the NCB’s “Colliery Ventilation” man located at Oakdale Colliery he was sent to the Windsor
- [Memorial Service](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/memorial-service/) - A memorial service for the miners that lost their lives in Universal Colliery disasters of 1901 and 1913 will take place on Monday 14th October 2019. It will take place at the National Mining Memorial at 10:00am.
- [Tracing their Family Roots](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/tracing-their-family-roots/) - We were recently visited by the family of John Jones aged 30 who came originally from Shropshire, and was killed in the 1901 explosion at the Universal Colliery. John, his wife Alice and their three children Florence, Jack and Fred lived at 15 Kingsley Place, Senghenydd. A fourth child, Alice was born after he was
- [Finding your past](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/finding-your-past/) - We have very many visitors to the Heritage Museum and Garden from all over the British Isle as well as overseas. Some just to find out about our history and to pay their respects to our past and there are those whose families originally lived in the Aber Valley during the early 1900’s and they
- [Road closure planned for Thursday, this coming Thursday, June 27th](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/road-closure-planned-for-thursday-this-coming-thursday-june-27th/) - CCBC tells us that it will be between 9:30am and 3:30pm. One section of the closure is starting from the junction with the mountain road (Tram Road) above Universal Villas. The other section is starting from just below the Four Terraces. The closure ends just above the entrance to Nant-y-Parc School. During the closure traffic
- [New Windsor Colliery Memorial, Abertridwr, Caerphilly Final Appeal](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/new-windsor-colliery-memorial-abertridwr-caerphilly-final-appeal/) - If there is any family member with a connection to those men who were killed during the working life of the Windsor Colliery OR those who wish to commemorate men or even themselves if they also worked in the Colliery can now sponsor their name on special Tiles at the base of the Memorial. PLEASE
- [Summer's here!](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/summers-here/) - British Summer Time starts on Sunday 31st March 2019. This means the Welsh National & Universal Memorial Garden located in Commercial Street, Senghenydd CF83 4GY will now be open 9:00am – 5:45pm (last time for entry is 15 mins before closing). The garden is maintained, including opening and closure by volunteers. We would be grateful
- [Your Valley needs you!](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/your-valley-needs-you/) - Volunteers are urgently needed to help out at with the running and maintenance: Community Centre, Gwern Avenue,Senghenydd CF83 4HAThe Welsh National and Universal Mining Memorial, Commercial Street, Senghenydd CF83 4GYAber Valley Heritage Museum, Gwern Avenue, Senghenydd CF83 4HA If you have a few hours a week to spare we would be most grateful if you
- [New Chair for Aber Valley Heritage](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/new-chair-for-aber-valley-heritage/) - The Committee Members of the above are pleased to announce that Councillor Lindsey Whittle has agreed to become their new Chair. The post became vacant after the untimely death of Jack Humphreys under whose guidance the Welsh National and Universal Mining Memorial has now become such an important part of the history of our Valley.
- [New Website](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/new-website/) - Aber Valley Heritage Group have a new website. Welcome! Please keep checking back for the latest news, our most recent projects and up to date information on opening times and events being held at the Aber Valley Heritage Museum and the Welsh National Mining Memorial & Garden.
- [J S HUMPHREYS (1941 - 2019)](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/j-s-humphreys-1941-2019/) - It is with a very sad heart that we have heard of the quiet passing of our Chairperson for Aber Valley Heritage, John (Jack) Humphreys. He has given so much of his time and life to our valley, and some of his proudest moments were to unveil the Miners Memorial with Roy Noble and to
- [Senghenydd’s mining memorial garden saved from future droughts](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/senghenydds-mining-memorial-garden-saved-from-future-droughts/) - While the scorching hot temperatures were enjoyed by many this summer, volunteers at the Universal and National Mining Memorial Garden in Senghenydd struggled to stop the lovely heathers and lawns from dying from lack of water. Trying to get water from the single connection near the entrance to the rest of the garden proved to
- [Walking Through Time made possible with new app](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/walking-through-time-made-possible-with-new-app/) - A new app which teaches users about the history of the Aber Valley has recently been launched at an event in Senghenydd. Walking Through Time is an Aber Valley Heritage Group Project that aims to help people stay fit, whilst teaching them about the history of the Aber Valley. The Aber Valley Heritage Group is

## Pages

- [1913 Universal Colliery Disaster](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/1913-universal-colliery-disaster/) - This article originally appeared on the BBC Wales History blog, and is reproduced here with kind permission. At 8:00am on Tuesday 14 October 1913 a huge explosion rocked the tiny town of Senghenydd, to the north of Caerphilly. It came from the coal mine belonging to the Universal Colliery, the most significant employer in the area, and
- [Walking Through Time](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/walking-through-time/) - Walking Through Time is an Aber Valley Heritage Group Project that aims to help people get fit, whilst teaching them about the history of the Aber Valley. The year long project has been brought to you with thanks to funding from Caerphilly County Borough Council, Aber Valley Community Council and The Federation of Museums and
- [Aber Valley Heritage Museum](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/aber-valley-heritage-museum/) - The Museum will be closed on Saturday 29th August 2026 for Bank Holiday weekend. It will re-open Tuesday 1st September 11:00am - 2:00pm. We are open Tuesday to Saturday between 11:00am and 2:00pm (Closed Bank Holidays & Saturdays before Bank Holiday Mondays) and admission is free of charge to everyone. Group visits/School TripsWe kindly request
- [About Us](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/about-us/) - Aber Valley Heritage Group was formed in 2008 by a group of local volunteers keen to preserve the mining heritage of their small valley. In 1901 and 1913, the Universal Colliery in Senghenydd was the site of 2 tragic disasters, where hundreds of men and boys lost their lives. The 15 volunteers, who form a
- [National Mining Disaster Memorial Garden of Wales](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/national-mining-disaster-memorial-garden-of-wales/) - Please check our Facebook page before travelling to visit the Memorial Garden, especially during the winter weather. October 2013 saw the opening of the new memorial garden in Senghenydd as The Welsh National and Universal Mining Memorial Garden. In March 2024 this was officially recognised by the Welsh Government as the National Mining Disaster Memorial
- [William Harris - The Sole Survivor of 1901 Universal Colliery Disaster](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/william-harris-the-sole-survivor-of-1901-universal-colliery-disaster/) - On the 24th May 1901, the first major disaster at Universal Colliery took place. Rescue parties rushed to the site and they fought their way through massive roof falls to a devastating scene. They came upon the body of what they thought was William Harris - an Ostler at the colliery, who was lying by
- [Delivery walk-through](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/delivery-walk-through/)
- [Windsor Colliery](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/the-windsor-colliery/) - In May 1893 the “Glamorgan Free Press” informed its readers that “The Great Western Colliery” had surveyed the area halfway between Abertridwr and the Universal Colliery and that the company was going to sink on land owned by Lord Windsor! The new Colliery was to be named after the landowner, Lord Windsor the Earl of
- [1901 Disaster](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/1901-disaster/) - The first disaster took place on the 24th May 1901. Mercifully it happened at the end of the night shift when many of the miners had been brought to the surface. There were 82 left underground at the time of the explosion. Of these only one survived, William Harris whose survivors still live in the
- [How to find us](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/how-to-find-us/) - Aber Valley Heritage MuseumSenghenydd Community CentreGwern AvenueSenghenydd CF83 4HA Welsh National Mining Memorial & GardenCommercial Street Senghenydd CF83 4GY
- [News](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/news/)
- [Timeline of events on 14th October 1913](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/timeline-of-events-on-14th-october-1913/) - 6:00am - 945 men and boys descended pit for start of day shift 8:10am - Explosion in Colliery –Lancaster Pit Cage crashes through headgear 9:30am - Work starts on clearing shaft 9:30am - First Survivors brought up 10:30am - First Rescue Brigade Car arrives from Rhymney Valley 11:00am - Porth Rescue Brigade arrives, followed shortly
- [Documentary about the disaster](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/documentary-about-the-disaster/) - The documentary tells the story of the UK's worst mining disaster; Senghenydd, Wales, 1913. We based the narrative around the true events of John Walters who fortunately slept late on that morning. *Winner of The National Royal Television Society award for Best Student Entertainment Film.* *Winner of The Royal Television Society Welsh Centre award for
- [Contact Us](https://www.abervalleyheritage.co.uk/contact-us/) - Aber Valley Heritage Museum Gwern Avenue Senghenydd CF83 4HA Tel: 029 2083 0445 E-mail: senghen.heritage@btconnect.com

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