THE latest community news from Harlech

Historical Society

The painting Salem has become something of a Welsh treasure.

It was painted in 1908 by the artist Sydney Curnow Vosper and depicts a scene in Capel Salem at Pentre Gwynfryn, near Llanbedr.

The central character is modelled by Siân Owen, a real person who lived at Tynyfawnog, Pensarn.

She is shown walking down the aisle towards her family pew in a bright shawl, in contrast to the sombre dress of the other people present.

Over the years, the picture has become famous and even notorious because it is believed that the devil is depicted in the shawl.

The story of Salem, the artist and the other characters in the painting – all of whom are based on local people – will be told by Dinah Pickard at the society’s first meeting of the New Year next Tuesday, 9 January.

Dinah, whose main interest is researching local genealogy, is a regular contributor to the society having previously spoken on subjects including the men of Harlech who died in the First World War.

The meeting will be held at Neuadd Goffa, the Memorial Hall, opposite Harlech Castle and will begin at 7.30pm.

Refreshments will be provided after the talk and all are welcome.

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