Place: Caerphilly
Born: 1809
Death: 1878
Biography:
Ieuan Ap Iago, also known as Evan James, was a Welsh poet and weaver who wrote the words to 'Hen Wlad Fy Nhadau', the national anthem of Wales. Born in 1809 in Caerphilly, Wales, he died on September 30, 1878.
Evan James was a weaver by trade and employed several people at his mill on the bank of the River Rhondda. According to family legend, his son James James, was walking one day in January 1856 on the banks of the river when the melody for Hen Wlad fy Nhadau came to him. When he gave the tune to his father, Evan James was able to compose the words which are the present-day Welsh national anthem.
is credited with composing the Welsh national anthem, 'Hen Wlad fy Nhadau' ('Land of my Fathers') in 1856. His son James James composed the tune. The song was published in the volume 'Gems of Welsh Melody' (1860) and soon became extremely popular.
The National Library of Wales has a collection of Ieuan Ap Iago's poems, including "The earliest manuscript of" which can be found on the Wikioo.org website. The Llyfrgell Genedlaethol Cymru also has a collection of Welsh art and literature, including works by Ieuan Ap Iago.
's legacy can be seen in the many artistic and literary works that he inspired. His son James James also went on to become a well-known musician and composer. A memorial, designed by W. Goscombe John, was erected in honour of Evan James and James James in Ynysangharad Park, Pontypridd, in 1930.
works by Ieuan Ap Iago include his poems and the Welsh national anthem, 'Hen Wlad fy Nhadau'. His legacy continues to inspire artists and musicians today.