Casgliadau Arlein

Painted plywood hand held fire-screen (or possibly story-telling paddle), with detachable handle, depicting the Ladies of Llangollen. Made by Vale of Clwyd Toys in Trefnant about 1915. Vale of Clwyd Toys was established by Miss Mary Heaton, originally to provide employment for local farmers during the winter months. Later, the company also employed wounded soldiers during and after the First World War.

The Ladies of Llangollen are probably the most famous lesbian couple in history. Lady Eleanor Butler and Sarah Ponsonby fled Ireland when their families tried to separate them. They lived together at Plas Newydd in Llangollen for over fifty years.