The papers consist of a group of 16 items, letters written to Hugh Derfel Hughes by various Welshmen and women such as Nicander, Meudwy Mon, Ceiriog, William Roos and Adela Douglas Pennant. The subject matter varies amongst these letters although several relate to the publications of Hugh Derfel Hughes, in particular Hynafiaethau Llandegai a Llanllechid.
There is also a written adjudication by Hugh Derfel Hughes, acting as adjudicator in a Bethesda Literary Society competition in November 1858.
Hugh Derfel Hughes was born in Llandderfel, Merionethshire in 1816. After working as a farm labourer for some years, he found work at the Penrhyn Quarry in Bethesda, Caernarfonshire. In 1846, he married and settled in Pendinas, Tregarth, Caernarfonshire - his wife's home.
Hugh Derfel Hughes' interest in writing poetry began at a young age. He also took an interest in Welsh history, local history, antiquities, geography and botany.
He wrote several books. Amongst his most well known publications are his collections of poetry Blodeu'r Gn (1844) and Y Gweithiwr Caniadgar (1849), and also his history of the parishes of Llandegai and Llanllechid in Caernarfonshire, Hynafiaethau Llandegai a Llanllechid (1866).
Hugh Derfel Hughes was the grandfather of Sir Ifor Williams (1881-1965).
The papers have been incorporated into the General Collection of Bangor Manuscripts. There is no apparent system of arrangement.
Open to all users
Description compiled by Elen Wyn Hughes, August 2001
An item level list is available at the Department of Manuscripts of the University of Wales Bangor. Reference numbers : General Collection of Bangor Manuscripts 1894 and 5709.
Usual copyright conditions apply. Reprographics are made at the discretion of the Archivist.
