A Dolgellau archivist has written his third book on the history of the town and its characters.

Meirionnydd archivist Merfyn Wyn Tomos, who was born and raised in the area, has released Dolgellau 3, Industry & Commerce.

The first Dolgellau book, which sold more than 1,000 copies, focused on the centre of the town and it’s buildings.

The second book contained more text than the first, and was set out thematically, focussing on education, sports and recreation, industry, special occasions, people and characters, court and council, religion and transport.

Mo Ainscough, of Dolgellau Partnership, said the third book “had received positive feedback”.

In the book, Mo writes: “I am delighted to introduce this third book of old pictures on behalf of the Dolgellau Partnership.

“The partnership is a voluntary organisation which aims to improve Dolgellau and its surrounding area by developing projects which benefit the town and community.

“The first book featured the buildings and streets of our unique little town; the second recalled events, activities and the groups and individuals who have played a part in Dolgellau’s colourful history.

“The third book, financed by the Dolgellau Partnership and the Dolgellau Townscape Heritage features local industries and businesses which have contributed to the financial stability of the area and its residents. Many of these are now long gone but leave remnants of their existence providing clues to Dolgellau’s fascinating past and memories of those bygone times.”

Commenting on his third book, Merfyn said: “The image conjured up by the phrase ‘Welsh industry’ would usually be of coal mines, steel making plants and tin smelting works. However, Dolgellau’s industries were quite different.

“They had similar characteristics in using locally available natural resources, in this case, wool, skins, timber and metal ores, but were conducted on a small scale, often as family enterprises.”

Merfyn, who, until his retirement in 2016 was responsible for running the Meirionnyd Record Office in Dolgellau, has filled his third book with fascinating facts and photographs.

In the foreword to it, he explains: “This book, the third in a series on Dolgellau, attempts to portray some of the town’s industrial history which has been instrumental in shaping its development.

“Several individuals have been generous with their help. I would like to mention two in particular, both of whom have sadly left us; Harold Williams, the postman, and my aunt, Olwen Davies.

“I spent many an hour in their company talking about the old town and its characters. I miss them greatly.

“Other individuals have helped me as well. I received material from Ann Thomas and had several conversations with her. Wyn Meredith shared pictures and stories about the Tanws and the Meredith family. I am extremely grateful to him. Thank you to my former colleagues in the Meirionnydd Record Office, Dolgellau, and the National Library, Aberystwyth as well.”

Dolgellau 3 is available from Siop y Cymro Newsagents, W D Wilkins Newsagents and Draig Dipsy Dragon.