The Salvage Archive: The Timeless Allure of the River Usk at Llanellen

 There is a unique magic to a 35mm slide. When you hold it up to the light or hear the mechanical thunk of a carousel projector, you aren’t just looking at a photo; you are looking at a physical window into a specific second in time. This particular frame from my collection, a scan of the River Usk from Llanellen, captures that quintessentially Welsh blend of rugged natural beauty and quiet, pastoral life.

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The Subject: The Mighty River Usk

The River Usk (Welsh: Afon Wysg) is one of the most storied waterways in Wales. Rising at an altitude of 500 meters on Mynydd Ddu (the Black Mountain), it meanders over 120 kilometres through the heart of the Usk Valley before reaching the sea at the Severn Estuary. By the time it reaches the village of Llanellen, just south of Abergavenny, it has transformed from an upland stream into a wide, powerful lowland river.

This stretch of the river is particularly significant. The entire length of the Usk is designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and a Special Area of Conservation (SAC). Looking at this slide, it’s easy to see why. The water flows over a bed of Old Red Sandstone, which lends the riverbanks a characteristic deep, earthy hue. The lush, riparian vegetation—thick with alder and willow—acts as a natural frame for the sparkling water.

The Setting: Llanellen and its Historic Bridge

Llanellen itself is a village built on the intersection of travel and nature. It sits at a historic crossing point where the Llanellen Bridge—a listed stone structure on the A4042—spans the river. This bridge is a landmark of the area, providing a gateway between the market town of Abergavenny and the rural stretches of Monmouthshire.

In this slide, the view captures the river corridor’s open pastoral setting. The village is nestled against a dramatic backdrop: the steep rural slopes of the Blorenge hillside. Part of the Brecon Beacons National Park, these heights act as a permanent, stoic guardian over the valley floor. The contrast between the flat, patchwork fields of the floodplain and the craggy, open hills is what gives this landscape its high scenic value.

A Haven for Wildlife

While the slide captures the stillness of the landscape, the River Usk is a hive of biological activity. It is famous for its game fish, serving as a vital migration route for Atlantic salmon and brown trout. If you were to sit by these banks at dawn or dusk, you might even spot the elusive otter, a species that has made a triumphant return to these waters.

The river also supports rare species like the twaite shad, river lampreys, and even the white-clawed crayfish. For the keen birdwatcher, the eroding earth cliffs along the Usk provide nesting sites for kingfishers and sand martins, while grey wagtails are a common sight skipping along the shingle banks.

The 35mm Aesthetic: Why Film Still Matters

Looking at this image through the lens of a 35mm slide adds a layer of nostalgia that digital photography often lacks. Slide film (or reversal film) produces a positive image on a transparent base, known for its rich, accurate colours and fine grain.

When this was shot, the photographer would have carefully considered the exposure, knowing they had only 36 frames to capture the essence of the valley. The result is an image with incredible depth. The reds of the sandstone, the deep greens of the Welsh hills, and the silvery reflections on the Usk are rendered with a "glow" that feels tactile. Digitizing these slides at 6000 x 4000 pixels allows us to preserve these details—every leaf on the bank, every ripple in the water—ensuring that the heritage of the Usk Valley is not lost to time or the natural degradation of film.

Heritage and History

Beyond its natural beauty, the area around Llanellen is steeped in history. The Usk Valley has been a strategic corridor since the Iron Age, marked by hillforts and medieval castles like those in nearby Abergavenny and Usk. Historically, the river even served as the old border between England and Wales.

Walking along the river today, you are following in the footsteps of centuries of travellers. Whether it was the Romans who established the settlement of Burrium (Usk) or the Victorians who engineered the nearby Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal, the river has remained the constant pulse of the region.

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Final Thoughts

This slide of the River Usk at Llanellen is more than just a landscape; it is a testament to the enduring character of the Welsh countryside. It captures a river that is both a wild ecosystem and a cultural cornerstone. As the water flows endlessly over its red sandstone slabs, it reminds us of the importance of preserving these places—both in the real world and through the archival magic of 35mm photography.

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The Salvage Archive: A Mighty Fortress and Majestic Landscape: Dating Harlech Castle

There are some views that are simply timeless, and this 35mm slide from my collection perfectly encapsulates one of them: the imposing silhouette of Harlech Castle against the dramatic backdrop of Snowdonia. It's a truly iconic Welsh vista, and this particular photograph, with its distinct colours and atmosphere, offers a wonderful opportunity to delve into its history and try to pinpoint when this moment was captured.

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Harlech Castle: A UNESCO World Heritage Site

Let's start with the star of the show. Harlech Castle is one of Wales' most spectacular medieval fortresses, a testament to the might of King Edward I.

• Edward I's Iron Ring: Built between 1283 and 1289 as part of Edward I's ambitious "Iron Ring" of castles designed to subdue the Welsh, Harlech was a marvel of military engineering. Its concentric design, with two rings of walls and towers, made it almost impregnable.

• A Symbol of Resistance: Despite its English origins, Harlech became a powerful symbol for the Welsh. It famously endured a seven-year siege during the War of the Roses, leading to the inspirational song "Men of Harlech."

• The Landscape: Perched dramatically on a rocky outcrop overlooking Tremadog Bay, the castle once stood directly on the sea. Over the centuries, the sea has receded, leaving it overlooking a vast dune system, but the views across to the mountains of Snowdonia remain breathtaking.

This slide perfectly captures that sense of commanding presence, with the castle dominating the foreground and the rugged peaks in the distance, testament to Wales' stunning natural beauty.

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Dating the Slide: A Quest for Clues

Now for the fun part: trying to place this photograph on a timeline. The castle itself hasn't changed dramatically structurally since the medieval period (aside from some partial demolitions after the English Civil War, and subsequent conservation), so we need to look at other indicators:

1. Film Stock and Colour Rendition: The most significant clue comes from the colours. We see:

   • A somewhat muted green in the foreground grass and distant fields, without the intense saturation of modern digital cameras.

   • A distinctive reddish-brown hue to the castle stonework and the low-lying scrub around it, especially in the shadows.

   • A slightly cool, almost desaturated blue/grey sky.

   • These characteristics are highly typical of Kodachrome film, particularly earlier generations from the 1960s to early 1980s. Kodachrome was known for its fine grain, sharpness, and unique colour palette, which could lean towards these specific tones.

2. Vegetation and Landscaping: The trees and bushes immediately around the castle and the small house to its right appear mature but not overly overgrown, suggesting a consistent level of maintenance as a tourist attraction. There are no obvious signs of recent major landscaping.

3. Lack of Modern Infrastructure: We don't see any modern cars prominently displayed, no overly aggressive signage, or obvious large-scale modern tourism infrastructure that might suggest a more recent date. The road winding up to the castle looks like it always has.

4. Weather/Light: The slightly overcast sky with patches of brighter light is also consistent with typical Welsh weather, but doesn't offer specific dating clues beyond suggesting it's not mid-winter (due to the green foliage).

Potential Date Range:

Given the strong lean towards the Kodachrome aesthetic and the general lack of modern intrusions, I would confidently place this slide somewhere in the 1970s. The colours feel very much of that decade, perhaps leaning slightly earlier towards the mid-to-late 70s rather than the early 80s.

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It's amazing how much information a single 35mm slide can hold! This photograph isn't just a picture; it's a window to a specific point in time, allowing us to appreciate Harlech Castle as it stood almost half a century ago.

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The Salvage Archive: Discovering the Charm of the Welsh Coracle

I recently rediscovered a fantastic piece of history—a 35mm slide from my collection, likely dating back to the 1960s. After digitizing it, I just had to share this glimpse into a timeless piece of Welsh heritage: the Coracle boat.

This photograph captures a beautifully rustic coracle resting on a shingle bank beside a river, its single, broad-bladed paddle lying across the wooden seat. It's a snapshot that transports you straight to the quiet waterways of Wales over half a century ago.

The Tiny Boat with a Huge History

If you're not familiar with it, a coracle (cwrwgl in Welsh) is a small, light, round or oval-shaped boat, designed for one person. It’s essentially a frame, historically made of woven willow or ash laths, covered with a waterproof material—in ancient times, animal hide, but by the mid-20th century, typically canvas or calico coated with tar or bitumen paint.

What makes them so fascinating is their incredible history. Coracles date back to pre-Roman times! They are one of the oldest forms of water transport in the world, with Julius Caesar even noting their use by the ancient Britons.

A River-Wise Design

The coracle's design is perfectly suited to its environment:

• Keel-less and Flat-Bottomed: This allows the boat to float in just a few inches of water, making it ideal for navigating shallow streams and fast-flowing rivers like the Teifi and Tywi in West Wales.

• Lightweight: Crucially, a coracle is light enough to be carried on the fisherman's back, often using a strap attached to the seat. This meant they could easily be transported between different stretches of water or carried home along with the day’s catch. This portability is key to the craft's endurance.

• Unique Propulsion: They are propelled by a single paddle, used in a figure-of-eight 'sculling' motion. This allows the fisherman to steer and move while keeping the other hand free for fishing—often for salmon or sea trout using a long, fine net, a traditional method still practised under license in parts of Wales today.

A Glimpse into the 1960s

The boat in the slide looks like a traditional working craft—its dark, tarred covering and simple wooden seat speak to utility and tradition. While the 1960s were a time of rapid change, this image reminds us that some ancient crafts were still very much a part of everyday life along Wales's rivers.

It's a wonderful memory to unearth from an old box of slides. Clicking the image should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

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The picture remains the copyright of Colin Green.

A Walk Through Time: Elwy Bridge, The Enduring Heart of St Asaph

As the River Elwy meanders its way through the historic city of St Asaph, it is gracefully spanned by a beautiful and unpretentious monument of Welsh history: the Elwy Bridge. The photographs you see capture its timeless charm—the gentle flow of the river, the sturdy stone arches, and the tranquil reflections on the water. But beyond its picturesque appearance, this bridge holds a story of resilience, craftsmanship, and a community's enduring spirit.

A History Built on Stone and Overcome by Water

The present Elwy Bridge, a magnificent five-arched stone structure, was completed in 1770. Its construction was a direct response to the persistent problem of flooding that plagued the area and regularly destroyed earlier crossings. Records show a previous bridge—likely a timber structure located further downstream—was severely damaged by floods in 1767, prompting the need for a more robust and permanent solution.

The design of the new bridge is attributed to Joseph Turner of Hawarden, a name also associated with the historic Ruthin Gaol. Turner's design was both practical and elegant. He incorporated triangular buttresses on the upstream side, known as cutwaters, to break the force of the river's flow during high water, a feature that has served the bridge well for over 250 years. The choice of materials and the symmetrical, yet varied, spans of the arches give the bridge a unique architectural character that blends seamlessly with the surrounding landscape.

More Than a Crossing: Interesting Facts and Features

• A Scheduled Ancient Monument: Elwy Bridge isn't just a functional part of the city's infrastructure; it is a protected heritage site. Its status as a Scheduled Ancient Monument recognizes its national importance and its contribution to the understanding of post-medieval construction techniques.

• Decorative Details: Look closely at the bridge's masonry and you'll find subtle decorative touches. The Fleur-de-Lys motif on the tie bar plates adds a flourish to its otherwise utilitarian design, a small detail that speaks to the pride of its builders.

• A Symbol of Resilience: While the 1770 bridge was a major step in flood defence, the city of St Asaph continues to face the challenges of its location in the Vale of Clwyd. The River Elwy has a history of bursting its banks, with devastating floods recorded in the past. The tragic floods of November 2012 were a stark reminder of this threat. Since then, the city has implemented major flood defence schemes, including raising and strengthening embankments. The bridge, however, has stood firm, a testament to its original design and a landmark around which these modern defences have been built.

• The Bridge to Nowhere: Not far from the main bridge lies another fascinating historical curiosity—Pont Dafydd, a medieval bridge that once crossed a different course of the River Clwyd. With the river rerouted in 1969 for the construction of the A55 expressway, the bridge now stands alone in a field, a solitary road to nowhere that serves as a quiet footpath.

So, the next time you find yourself in the serene setting of St Asaph, take a moment to appreciate the Elwy Bridge. It is more than just a way to cross the river; it is a gateway to the past, a symbol of a community’s struggle with nature, and a beautiful piece of history that continues to stand strong.

I took the pictures below with a Nikon d3300 on the 27th July 2024, clicking any of them should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

The next 2 images are the result of some creative editing  and can be purchased in various formats from Photo4Me.

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All the images remain the copyright of Colin Green.

St Asaph Parish Church: A Historic Gem in North Wales

St Asaph Parish Church, also known as the Church of St Kentigern and St Asa (Asaph) is a captivating place of worship located in the picturesque town of St Asaph, North Wales. With its rich history and stunning architecture, this church is a must-visit for anyone exploring the region.

A Brief History

The history of St Asaph Parish Church dates back to the 6th century when St Kentigern is believed to have established a church on the site, the dedication to St Asaph was added in the 12th Century. Over the centuries, the church has undergone various renovations and additions, resulting in its unique blend of architectural styles.

Community Hub

St Asaph Parish Church is not only a place of religious worship but also a vibrant community hub. The church hosts a variety of events and activities throughout the year, including concerts, exhibitions, and social gatherings. It's a place where people can come together to connect, learn, and celebrate.

Whether you're a history buff, a spiritual seeker, or simply looking for a beautiful place to visit, St Asaph Parish Church is well worth a visit. Its rich history, stunning architecture, and welcoming atmosphere make it a truly special place.

I visited on a July morning, venturing to the charming city of St Asaph, North Wales to explore amongst many things, the Parish Church of St Asaph. Though the interior was closed, the church's exterior was a sight to behold, nestled on a small plot of land to the east of the River Elwy, commanding attention from the High Street. The photo's below, taken with a Nikon d3300, offer a glimpse of its grandeur. Clicking any of them should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

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All the images remain the copyright of Colin Green.

The Duke of Lancaster: North Wales' Ghost Ship

There's something undeniably captivating about a ship stranded on land. It's a scene straight out of a maritime fantasy, a relic of the past frozen in time. And in the heart of North Wales, there's a perfect example of this: the Duke of Lancaster.

Once a proud passenger ferry, the Duke of Lancaster now rests on the banks of the River Dee, a silent sentinel on the Welsh coastline. Beached in 1979 with grand plans to become a floating leisure complex, the ship's destiny took a different course. Legal battles and financial woes halted the project, leaving the vessel abandoned and decaying.

Despite its forlorn state, the Duke of Lancaster has an undeniable allure. Its imposing silhouette against the Welsh sky is a striking image, and it has become a local landmark, drawing curious visitors and photographers alike. The ship is a time capsule, a tangible link to a bygone era of ocean liners and grand voyages.

While the ship's future remains uncertain, one thing is clear: it has captured the imagination of the public. Countless stories and legends surround the Duke of Lancaster, adding to its mystique. Some say it's haunted, others believe it's a symbol of lost dreams and unfulfilled potential.

Whether you're a history buff, a photography enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates the unusual, the Duke of Lancaster is a must-see. It's a reminder that even in the face of adversity, there's beauty to be found in the unexpected.

The pictures below were taken from the North Wales Coast walk, the path running around the Lancaster's berth, which is where I took these pictures from, the site clearly guarded against unwelcome visitors. I respected this and kept to the path, they were taken on the 27th July 2024 with a Nikon d3300. Clicking any of them should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

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All the images remain the copyright of Colin Green.

A Glimpse into History: "The Nation's Shrines" Cigarette Cards

 I recently unearthed a fascinating piece of history and turned it into a short YouTube video titled "The Nation's Shrines." It features a complete set of 25 cigarette trading cards released in 1929 by Player's Cigarettes, also called "The Nation's Shrines."

What Makes These Cards Special?

Each card in this collection showcases an image of a historic place from England, Ireland, Scotland, and Wales. It's a real time capsule, offering a look at some of the most significant abbeys, cathedrals, castles, and other points of interest across the United Kingdom almost a century ago.

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A Tour Through Time and Place

The video, which features every card in the set, takes you on a visual journey. You'll see stunning depictions of historical landmarks. Interestingly, while the complete set is there, Kenilworth Castle only makes a fleeting appearance, nestled briefly between John Milton's Cottage and Manorbier Castle due to the video software.

Breaking down the representation, the collection heavily features England with 17 sites. Wales and Ireland each have 3 sites, while Scotland is represented by just 2. It's safe to say that if this collection were curated today, we'd likely see a much more balanced representation, especially with more sites from the Celtic nations!

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Why Check Out the Video?

If you're a history buff, a fan of vintage ephemera, or simply curious about how these iconic locations were viewed nearly a century ago, this video is a must-watch. It's a charming and unique way to connect with the past and appreciate the enduring beauty of the UK's heritage.

Ann Hathaway's Cottage, Warwickshire, England.

Blarney Castle, County Cork, Ireland.

Bootham Bar and York Minster, Yorkshire, England.

Cashel, County Tipperary, Ireland.

Clonmacnoise, County Offaly, Ireland.

Fountains Abbey, Yorkshire, England.

Furness Abbey, Cumbria, England

Glastonbury Abbey, Somerset, England.

Haddon Hall, Derbyshire, England.

Henry VIII's Chapel, Westminster Abbey, London, England.

Holyrood Palace, Edinburgh, Scotland.

John Knox's House, Edinburgh, Scotland.

Milton's Cottage, Buckinghamshire, England.

Kenilworth Castle, Warwickshire, England.

Manorbier Castle, Pembrokeshire, Wales.

Birthplace of William Shakespeare, Warwickshire, England.

St Davids Cathedral, Pembrokeshire, Wales

St Pauls Cathedral, London, England.

Stoke Poges Church, Buckinghamshire, England.

Stonehenge, Wiltshire, England.

The Cloisters at Newstead Abbey, Nottinghamshire, England.

Tower of London, London, England.

Tintern Abbey, Monmouthshire, Wales.

Warwick Castle, Warwickshire, England.

Winchester Cathedral, Hampshire, England.

Clicking any image should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

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