Taking a trip back to Welsh roots

Oct 16 2008 by andrew Davies, North Wales Weekly News

IT was a quest to walk the same streets as his ancestors which brought American Richard Williams to North Wales.

Richard, 88, lives in Florida and has always been keen to learn more of his family history, in particular that of his grandparents who once lived in Llanfairtalhaearn.

Reflecting on his visit Richard said: “I rented a car and drove to Wales after landing in Manchester. Any time I mentioned that my mission was to locate my relatives – my ancestors, home and so forth – people couldn’t have been more helpful. They’re very friendly, the Welsh are lovely people.”

Having made the long journey to LlanfairTH, Richard was keen to see the village and was not disappointed by what he saw.

“The village is the most beautiful place I have ever seen,” he said. “It was absolutely gorgeous and the people were so helpful. I was impressed. They made me feel right at home.”

Staying in a local bed and breakfast and visiting the Black Lion pub, Second World War veteran Richard decided to extend his stay and find the house where his great-grandfather and grandfather had lived.

“The beauty of the place overwhelmed me,” he said. “It was just magnificent, a once-in-a-lifetime experience. I felt proud to be a Welsh American.

“I revelled in the beauty of the place and the friendliness of the Welsh people. I was elated to be there where my ancestors originated.

“I felt 10ft off the ground. I was so excited that I had accomplished what I set out to do.”

Unfortunately the North Wales climate could not be so welcoming for Richard: “The weather was abominable for the entire two weeks I was there, but it didn’t lessen the joy I found there.

“My God it rained, but the friendliness of the people made up for the bad weather.”

Coming to terms with our summer and navigating his way through narrow country lanes has not altered Richard’s opinion of LlanfairTH and the adventure he underwent to get there.

“The discomfort of the trip was outweighed by the joy and serenity I found in Wales,” he said. “I enjoyed my walking in Wales, surrounded by peace and tranquillity.

“It was lovely. I felt a connection, a contact that was almost spiritual. I’m not a religious man but I felt immersed in an ambiance with my ancestors. I had never felt that before.”

andy.davies