Place-Names of Carmarthenshire

Place-Names of Carmarthenshire is the first publication to investigate all major place-names in the historic county of Carmarthen (1536-1974), including the westerly parts of the county transferred to modern Pembrokeshire after 1996. It reveals the history and meaning of Welsh place-names, which have often changed over time, and includes a 1,000-entry Glossary of place-name elements, personal names, and rivers.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 300 pages
Publication date: 04 August 2022
Publisher: Welsh Academic Press

Place-Names of Carmarthenshire is a groundbreaking work that delves into the comprehensive investigation of all significant place-names within the historic county of Carmarthen (1536-1974), encompassing the western portions of the county that were subsequently transferred to modern Pembrokeshire following the year 1996. By tracing the history of Welsh place-names, we gain valuable insights into the lives and perspectives of our ancestors, shedding light on their way of life and the world they inhabited. However, ascertaining the true meaning of place-names can be a complex task, as their written and spoken forms have undergone significant changes over time, particularly when languages transitioned from Welsh to English within specific regions. Fortunately, Carmarthenshire experienced relatively minimal impacts compared to many other parts of Wales, although it is still important to be cautious of modern spellings that may lead to confusion.

For instance, Caerfyrddin (Carmarthen) does not derive its name from the mythological Myrddin (Merlin) as depicted in the Arthurian tales. Instead, it is rooted in the combination of morddin (mor / sea and din / fort), which describes a Roman maritime fort, serving as the precursor to the medieval borough. Similarly, Llanboidy does not contain a llan (church) but rather a nant (stream) located near a beudy (cow-shed). Castelldwyran, on the other hand, does not signify "Durant's castle" as commonly believed. Rather, it is composed of castell (castle) and an Anglo-Norman personal name Durant, reflecting the historical influence of the Norman invaders on the region.

To enhance our understanding of these place-names, Place-Names of Carmarthenshire is meticulously illustrated with numerous images showcasing the beauty and diversity of the county. Accompanying this comprehensive exploration is a 1,000-entry Glossary of place-name elements, personal names, and rivers, providing a valuable resource for scholars and enthusiasts alike. The author's extensive research in archives and reference libraries has resulted in a meticulously compiled work that sheds new light on the rich tapestry of place-names in Carmarthenshire.

Dimension: 234 x 156 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781860571572