Those readers conversant in Welsh may wonder why I have used the English spelling of the town and not the correct Welsh spelling.  In the Welsh language the "V" is non existent, but the sound is represented by the letter "F".  I have used the Anglicised version to aid those who may "surf" the Internet in search of  information on the town.  In all personal correspondence I use the correct spelling - Blaenafon.

Blaenavon derives it's name from the Afon Llwyd (Grey River).  "Blaen" meaning head or beginning and "Afon" being river.  The Afon Llwyd rises in the moorland at Garn - yr - erw and effectively passes through the town.  Mountain moorland, surrounds the town with gorse and fern being amongst the few plants which survive in the altitude and climate.  Heather grows profusely and is a sight to be remembered when the purple flowers are evident.  The area around Blaenavon, which lies on the border of the Brecon Beacons National Park, provides the visitor with outstanding scenery.  Throughout the year hikers may be seen traversing the Blorenge or exploring the industrial remains at both Garndyrus and Pwll Du.

Blaenavon owes it's heritage to coal and iron and later to steel.  The population of the town peaked at over 12,000 in 1921, but steadily declined to the present day figure of approximately 6,000.  Many people throughout the times of depression emigrated to the United States of America, Australia and other destinations.  Blaenavon has had a chequered history and with the loss of heavy industry the town, like so many in the South Wales Valleys, fell into decline.  However, its heritage, which until November 2000 had not been recognised for its true value, has resulted in the town being awarded World Heritage Status.  For those interested in social or industrial history a visit to Blaenavon will reap great rewards.

The future now seems brighter than it has for many years and it is hoped that the influx of visitors seeking a glimpse into the past will once again bring prosperity to Blaenavon.