What are your memories of the 1976 Cardigan Eisteddfod? The long hot summer was the last time the eisteddfod returned home to its birthplace and the dry conditions led to it being dubbed the ‘Dusty Eisteddfod’.

Cardigan Castle are looking to record memories of that day for a special exhibition in readiness for the eisteddfod’s return to Ceredigion in 2020. Perhaps you were involved in the pageant? Or a member of the audience? Or a visitor to the town?

The castle is holding an Eisteddfod Day on August 23 and during that day local writer Anwen Francis will be on hand to record people’s memories. There will also be a film camera to take pictures and record interviews as well as take pictures of any artefacts or souvenirs of that special July week. The castle will also have a team of volunteers who will scan any personal photographs and return them that day.

Anyone who can’t make August 23 but would like to contribute to the exhibition is welcome to send in their recollections via email to [email protected].
Local resident Llinos Price has already donated a selection of items collected by her late mother Gwennie including press cuttings.
Cadwgan Trust chair Non Davies said: “We really want to get people’s memories down on record. It was a huge occasion for Cardigan and one of the last times the eisteddfod was held within a town. Today’s eisteddfod is a much bigger affair but people have very vivid and very fond memories of 1976. As the birthplace of the eisteddfod we think it’s only right the castle takes the lead on this exhibition.”