Morris Family of Swansea, Industrialists, Papers

'History of the Copper Concern' - historical notes and memorabilia extracted by Robert Morris junior from the letter-books of Robert Morris senior, relating to the latter's copper-smelting works in Swansea 1774; diaries of Robert Morris junior kept during tours of the Continent and the British Isles 1772-1774; miscellaneous letters and papers relating to the Morris' copper concerns c1760-1815; common-place book of Sir John Morris containing quotations, aphorisms, family, business and estate memoranda etc. c1760-1818; cutting from the 'Evening Post' with account of the gift of the above manuscripts from Mrs Byng Morris to the University of Wales Swansea 1952. Estate plans and surveys of the Morris estates in Sketty and Morriston 1776-c1884; legal papers 1776-1827; Llanrhidian title deeds 1587-c1790. Records relating to the Sketty Park Estate including rentals 1917-1962; collecting book 1955; Killay Cottages Collecting Book 1963-1970; cash book 1949-1987; cash journal 1968-1971; day book 1954-1985.

These papers relate to the Morris family of Swansea, industrialists. The Llangyfelach Copper Works operated by John Lane started production in 1717. In 1724 Robert Morris was brought in from Shropshire to supervise the business and when Lane was declared bankrupt in 1726, Robert Morris took control of the works. He formed the partnership Morris Lockwood and Company and they became a major force in copper smelting and coal mining in the Swansea area until the partnership was dissolved in 1800. The partnership operated the Llangyfelach Works 1726-1748; the Fforest works and Fforest (Battery) Works c1746-c1793 and the Landore Works from c1793. Robert Morris also operated the Cambrian Works 1735-1745. The family founded Morriston as an industrial township in which to house their workers in the late eighteenth century. The records in this archive include personal records of Robert Morris as well as records relating to the management of the Morris estates.

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