Although Eisteddfod Fawr Llangollen (Great Llangollen Eisteddfod) held in September 1858
was not a perfect example of its kind, it was important in the development of the National Eisteddfods
which have followed ever since. It could be said to have been an eisteddfod of ‘firsts’.
It was the first time robes were worn instead of sashes and Hen Wlad fy Nhadau in its original form
as a tune called Glan Rhondda composed by James James in 1856 appeared.
It was included in a competition for a collection of unpublished Welsh airs and later harmonised
by John Owen (Owain Alaw), given words by Evan James and eventually adopted as the national anthem of Wales.
John Ceiriog Hughes (Ceiriog) won the silver crown with his love poem on Myfanwy Fychan and began his illustrious career.
The eisteddfod was widely advertised in Welsh and English newspapers, even as far as America
and it was probably the first time Welsh exiles were invited.
Pictured is the Logan Stone in the centre of the bardic circle, used for the 1908 Eisteddfod
in the grounds of Plas Newydd.
Photo Hanes-Llangollen-History.
More information: www.museumwales.ac.uk