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Some History of the town of Mold, Flintshire, Wales From: "Patrick Kenney" <patrickekenney@yahoo.com>
Sent: Sunday, November 20, 2005 9:45 AM
Subject: [MOLD/MOULD Family Genealogy]
Some History of Mold, Flintshire, Wales
Thought you might enjoy... http://www.bbc.co.uk/wales/northeast/sites/flintshire/pages/mold.shtml BBC - North East Wales Flintshire history - Mold Mold history Mold's history is as colourful as the Bronze Age Gold Cape which was found in a grave on the outskirts of the town in 1833. Although Mold is not mentioned in the Domesday Book, the Normans did leave something behind which is enjoyed by people to this day. Bailey Hill, at the top end of the town, looks down over Mold as it did when a motte and bailey castle stood on the site. Walkers can now enjoy a relaxing stroll to the top and look out over the town and the surrounding communities. But Bailey Hill was once the scene of a number of bloody skirmishes before the Edwardian conquest of Wales. Some believe Bailey Hill is where Mold's Welsh name Yr Wyddgrug was derived meaning heap, tomb or memorial. Whilst others think the English name Mold is derived from the area's Norman lords, the Montalts. Not too dissimilar is Mons Altus, Latin for high mount. After the last Norman lord died in 1329, it is said that the castle changed hands time and again and usually to those involved in the region's politics. Mold's bloody history continued with blood spilled even at a town fair. Mold held two annual fairs which were recorded as far back as the 1400s. And in one in 1465, the neighbouring mayor of Chester was kidnapped whilst visiting. It is said Robert Byrne was captured by a local leader and taken to a house called Tower at Nercwys and hanged. It's said that a battle ensued between the men of both leaders with a number of lives lost. Perhaps the local leader had taken exception to the old law that a Welshman caught within the walls of Chester after dark could be killed. In Tudor times there was more peace in Mold apart from disturbances as part of the Civil War. By the 19th century Mold began to thrive on its deposits of coal and the town's workforce doubled. But the newcomers had to endure poor living conditions and pay and with their unrest came trouble and the Mold riots. However by the end of the 19th century coal was in decline and town and many of its people found themselves in a depressed state. There is also some further links on Mold & Flintshire on this same page. Best Regards, Patrick |
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