THE latest community news from Harlech.

Historical Society

HARLECH’S Home Front, 1914-1918, is the theme of the first meeting of the New Year which will be held Tuesday, 10 January.

Much has already been discussed about the military struggle during the First World War, but there is a fascinating story to be told about how those left at home coped during the conflict and their contribution to the war effort. The area was a popular tourist destination during the halcyon days before August 1914. Among its attractions were the annual music and drama festival, the renowned golf course and the popular sandy beach. When war was declared all this changed. Voluntary recruitment was followed by conscription.Fund-raising activities were undertaken to support the troops and the Red Cross. Women worked in munitions factories, teaching and public transport. Refugees fleeing the invasion of Belgium were welcomed and accommodated and temporary hospitals established to care for the wounded. Towards the end of the war there was a measles epidemic and the first death from Spanish flu. The aftermath was a long struggle to rebuild family and community lives amidst poverty and austerity. The society’s study group has researched the experiences of local people during these years and two members of the group, John Hirst and Dr Carol Ball, will give presentations covering the period immediately before the outbreak of war, the years of conflict and the aftermath. The meeting will be held at 7.30pm at Neuadd Goffa, The Memorial Hall, just opposite the Castle and all are welcome to attend.

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