The Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Wales in partnership with the Swansea Canal Society has just published a brilliantly illustrated book charting the history and importance of the canal. The story of the canal began 230 years ago with the 1794 Act of Parliament authorising the canal, which ran for over 16 miles (26km) from the port of Swansea to Abercraf. The story of the book also has a long history of almost fifty years – its author, Stephen Hughes, says “The book was suggested by the late, great Professor Glanmor Williams of Swansea (then Chair of the Commission) when many of the canal remains were threatened by redevelopment. The many reconstruction drawings and watercolours in the book have been a labour of love taking many years to accomplish but I hope the book and its illustrations will be a lasting contribution to understanding the canal”. So it was with great joy that we assembled in the National Waterfront Museum to launch the long-awaited publication.

The launch formed part of the “225 in 2023”, a collaboration between Glandŵr Cymru and the Swansea Canal Society that celebrates the first 225 years of the canal. The room in the museum was soon set up and ready to go.

Our host for the afternoon was Professor Nancy Edwards who welcomed our guests before noting the importance of the canal and the relevance of the book. She then introduced our speakers: Firstly, Graham Thomas, Lord Mayor of Swansea, reminded us of the importance of the canal today with reference to preservation of heritage and, critically, the use of the canal as a resource for health and well-being. Next, Sharon Blackford representing the Society told us of the work in the past, present and future of the volunteers striving to maintain and restore the canal. Finally, and most importantly, Stephen Hughes spoke about his involvement with canals world-wide and his journey writing, painting, revising and finally seeing the publication of the book. He thanked Clive Reed, President and Heritage Consultant of the Society, for his significant contribution to the book, and presented him with a signed copy.

After the speeches there was plenty of time for light refreshments and the opportunity to chat with friends old and new. Stephen also kindly signed copies of the book.

The book, SCS calendars and originals of Stephen’s delightful artwork were available to purchase. Business was very brisk.

The full details of the book are Arteries of Sustainable Industry: The Swansea Canal and its Early Railways by Stephen Hughes published by RCAHMW and the Swansea Canal Society. ISBN 978-1-871184-65-5. Price: £45. This is available from the Royal Commission’s online bookshop and by email to the Swansea Canal Society.