Casgliadau Arlein

Photograph captioned 'Lower Swansea Valley Slag Waste. During the second half of the 19th Century, Swansea was known as the metallurgical centre of the world. Along the banks of the Swansea canal, in the Lower Swansea Valley, many smelting works were in operation, and copper, zinc and spelter were manufactured. The processes resulted in the accumulation of slag which was disposed in towering heaps in the vicinity of the works. During the 20th century, for various reasons, most of the works closed and their buildings were allowed to decay and disintegrate. The approach into Swansea from the east remained an industrial scene until recent times, when the rehabilitation of the area begun.' Mounted on card. Made for the exhibition RECORDING WALES 3 in 1970/1971.