UWTSD to celebrate Wool Month with special open day exploring the history of sheep in Wales
The University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD) will host a special open day to celebrate Wool Month, offering visitors a fascinating insight into the history of sheep farming and the enduring importance of wool in Wales.
The event will feature a talk entitled A Short History of Sheep in Wales by Debby Mercer, a UWTSD graduate, sheep owner and Senior Curator at the National Wool Museum. Drawing on her extensive knowledge of wool and its heritage, Debby will bring the subject to life through a remarkable display of rare books and archival materials from UWTSD’s Special Collections.
The open day will take place on Wednesday, 28 October, at 2pm in the Roderic Bowen Library and Archives on UWTSD’s Lampeter campus.
Debby said:
“The University library hosted my first ever exhibition on wool when I was doing my undergraduate dissertation, so I am really happy to be back again, talking all things wool, past, present and future”
Visitors will have the opportunity to explore a collection of wool-related tracts dating from 1698 to 1772, shedding light on historical issues including wool smuggling, wool manufacturing and the regulation of wool prices.
The display will also feature black-and-white photographs from the 1986 Royal Welsh Show, alongside evocative images of Welsh sheepdog trials and sheep shearing from the 1980s. Samples of raw and processed wool will offer a further insight into this versatile natural material.
In addition to exploring wool’s rich history, Debby will share her knowledge of the innovative ways in which wool is being used across a range of industries today, highlighting its continuing relevance and potential.
Nicky Hammond, UWTSD’s Special Collections Archivist, said:
“Debby’s knowledge of wool is encyclopaedic, and her enthusiasm is infectious. Your eyes will be opened to the myriad ways that wool is used today.”
The event promises to be an engaging opportunity to discover the historical, cultural and contemporary significance of wool in Wales, bringing together rare archival treasures, local heritage and new perspectives on a traditional industry.
To find out more or to book a place, please contact Nicky Hammond at n.hammond@uwtsd.ac.uk.
Further Information
Lowri Thomas
Principal Communications and PR Officer
Corporate Communications and PR
Email: lowri.thomas@uwtsd.ac.uk
Phone: 07449 998476