Heritage Publications

Book: The Village of Govilon in Living Memory

This little book was first compiled and published by members of Govilon Village History Group to celebrate the Millennium in our village. In June 2000, the book was launched at a special event attended by many of the contributors. By the end of the month, a reprint was needed as all 500 copies had been sold!

When every book from the second print run had gone, Govilon History Group was already working on its next book, the history of Llanwenarth Baptist Church, and the group was unable to arrange another reprint of "I Remember, I Remember". Copies of the book became much sought after, but the book has been 'out of print' ever since.

In 2004, in response to the development of the Blaenavon Industrial Landscape World Heritage Site, which includes part of Govilon, residents of the village formed a small group known as Govilon Heritage. This group, with members from all parts of the village community, church, chapel, school and local businesses, is developing strong links with other organisations including the Brecon Beacons National Park Authority, Monmouthshire County Council, Torfaen County Borough Council and HERIAN - Heritage in Action. We are being financed by the Welsh Assembly Government under the Article 33 Rural Development Plan for Wales, managed by the Welsh Development Agency, and by Rural Community Action, Monmouthshire County Council Local Agenda 21 (Community Pride Grant) and Awards for All Wales.

Govilon Heritage aims to preserve and promote the unique rural and industrial heritage of this village, to encourage tourism and promote local businesses, craft activities, sporting activities and local events. One of its first priorities has been to bring this very special village book back into print. We are delighted to be able to present the original material in its entirety, thanks to the members of Govilon Village History Group. All that has been added is this introduction, a new cover, clearer Village maps, and a very welcome Foreword from the Director of the Blaenavon World Heritage Site Project, John Rodger MBE. We hope you will enjoy this little book as much as we have enjoyed bringing it out again.