1914 Porthcawl

Picture
Mr Hutchinson and Mr Dare outside Hutchinson's shop.
Between 1906 -1914 the population of Porthcawl doubled to around 5500. Gas lighting was available in most areas , with electricity becoming more accepted.Motor cars were beginning to replace  horse drawn carriages which concerned pedestrians to such an extent that policemen were instructed to flag down any persons found speeding.10mph was dangerous in town!
Porthcawl of 1914 was a town with ambition. The docks had closed in 1906 yet the Porthcawl  Urban District Council (P.U.D.C) was intent on developing Porthcawl into "the Brighton of Wales." Support both financially and physically was readily available to improve roads, amenities,buildings and facilities to attract residents and seaside visitors.
By Christmas of 1913 John Street was described thus "What a difference John Street is to what it was 10years ago,with its latest designs in shop front,its music hall and well illuminated thoroughfare. People no longer need to go to Aberavon or Bridgend to shop."
"The Porthcawl News" ran from 1910-1925. It's offices were on the corner of Wells Street and John Street.
 Local News "Bits"
  • Lectures at the YMCA January -March are printed and ready. All lectures 7.30pm. Room holds 150.
  • Miss Waddle entertained the Catholic Community to a party on New Year's Eve at Waddle's Hall. (Today Stella Maris stands on the same spot)
  • The sewerage system may improve on an electrolytic system.(electric today)
Local News "Bits"
  • A gang of young lads congregate outside the Coliseum (Spar today)and annoy passers-by.
  • A successful Poultry Show was enjoyed at the Old School Room, Nottage.( Baptist Church today)
  • A tollgate is needed at Newton. The roads are in a terrible state. 
  • 3rd February 1914 witnessed the consecration of All Saints Church.
February 1914 - George Yewlett , Proprietor of the Royal Oak, was fined for driving a trap in New Road without lights. In his defence he said that the candles had blown out. He was fined 10/6d.


Note - there is as yet no mention of war!